I C3 DH K K, 



KSELLER & STATIONER 

nor, Market Street. 

l-UILADELPHIA. 



Bindinc done to orfle 



I LlBlilRY OF CONGRESS. # 
i - -,- # 

J UNITED STATKS OF AMERICA. | 



THE 



ILLUSTRATED 



HORSE DOCTOR 



AN ACCURATE AND DETAILED ACCOUNT OF THE YARIOUS DISEASES 
TO WHICH THE EQUINE RACE ARE SUBJECTED 



WITH THE LATEST MODE OF TREATMENT, AND 
ALL THE REQUISITE PRESCRIPTIONS. 

WRITTEN IN PLAIN ENGLISH. 



ACCOMPANIED BY 



lore \\m lour Sunljre^ fictorial 'g^xtmMan, 



BY 

EDWARD MAYHEW, M.R.C.V.S. 

AUTHOR OF "THE HORSE'S MOUTH;" -DOGS: THEIR MAXAGEMENT;" EDITOR OF "BLAIN'S VETERINAKT 

ART," ETC. ETC. 



PHILADELPHIA: 

J. B. LIPPINCOTT & CO. 

18 62. 



<5^ 



fl-^LJV/ 



TO 



U ^$n>ln>m>in %t$hi$, ^M^M>t% 



TESTIMONY OF THE BENEVOLENCE AND SKILL 



WHICH 



RESCUED THE AUTHOR FROM IMPENDING DEATH, 



Tlxis Booli is Bebicatcb, 



HIS MOST HUMBLE SERVANT, 



EDWARD MAYHEW. 



i 



ADVERTISEMENT. 



The publishers of the present work have long been im- 
pressed with the idea that a new book upon the Diseases 
of the Horse, written in simple language, and specially de- 
signed as a guide for non-professional readers, had grown to 
be a public necessity. While waiting for an opportunity to 
carry this notion into effect, they were fortunate enough 
to become acquainted with a gentleman whose proficiency 
in veterinary science is undisputed. To that individual 
the present work was intrusted ; and it was nearly com- 
pleted when the publishers heard with surprise that Mr. 
Mayhew employed the pencil in a manner only secondary 
to his use of the j)en. 

Acting on this information, the publishers were induced 
to persuade the author to illustrate his text by drawings 
descriptive of the various stages and aspects of disease. 
The addition of above four hundred wood engravings has, 
of course, materially increased the expense of publication. 
A heavy outlay has been incurred, while, at the same time, 
the spirit of the age is decidedly against paying a large 
sum for any work of general information. These circum- 
stances render the present volume doubly hazardous. How- 
ever, it is confidently hoped that, when the accuracy of 
the illustrations and the perspicuity of the letter-press are 
appreciated, a large sale will more than recompense any 
amount of outlay. 

a) 



PREFACE. 



When laying the present volume before the public, the author 
cannot but feel he addresses two very opposite parties : one, and by 
far the larger portion of society, views the subject of which this 
book pretends to treat simply as a working machine, and regards all 
those who speak of the creature as endowed with intelligence or pos- 
sessed of sensibility as fanciful sentimentalists checked by no limit to 
assertion. The other class — a small, but a highly-educated and an 
influential section of the public — sees the matter in a very contrary 
light. In their ideas, the equine race, though endowed with voice, 
is not entirely without reason, but possessed of the keenest feelings 
and capable of the tenderest emotions. 

The last party, however, expect so little from living writers that 
probably they will be pleased with opinions which they may hail as 
an advance toward the truth. The first order of readers, however, 
tie author cannot think to propitiate. Before the opening article is 
perused, one of these gentlemen will probably fling the volume aside 
with a sneer, and exclaim — 

" Why, what would this fellow have ? Does he desire we should 
build hospitals for horses ?" 

To the uninformed mind such a question will suggest a preposter- 
ous image. But, when calmly considered, a hospital is perceived to 
be uothing more than a place where disease in the aggregate is 
cheaply treated, and the trouble or the expense of individual reme- 
dies thereby is prevented. A hospital for horses, sanctioned by gov- 
ernment, and honored with the highest patronage, does even now 
exist in the Royal Veterinary College of Camden Town. Such a 

(9) 



10 PREFACE. 

foundation, therefore, would prove no positive novelty; but were such 
institutions more general, a necesssity now universally felt would be 
supplied, while the duty incumbent on mankind to conserve the lives 
of beings intrusted to their care would, in such structures, be grace- 
fully acknowledged and openly enforced. 

No man possessing a horse is willing the animal should perish. 
His interest cleai'ly is in the prolongation of its life ; and he would 
gladly part with some money rather than be reduced to the owner- 
ship of a carcass. That, however, which he wishes to have accom- 
plished he desires should be performed cheaply. Hospitals — supposing 
such places existed, and were of different grades or of different scales 
of charges — would afford the best prospect of relief at the smallest 
remunerative cost. Still, any application to such establishments must 
of necessity prove a tax, the only known preventive against the visi- 
tation of which would be the exercise of a little humanity. 

A very slight expenditure of the last-named quality would save 
the equine race from a long list of ills which now are consequent 
upon mortal ignorance or upon human brutality. It is painful to 
reflect how many of those affections spoken of as equine disorders 
might be cheaply eradicated by the more reasonable treatment of thf 
animal which man proverbially esteems to be his most hazardous 
property. 

Cruelty is a very extravagant indulgence. There are now living 
persons who merely treat their horses according to the dictates of 
reason, and whose stables are graced by working lives of an extreme 
age. When he last walked through the Royal Mews, the author was 
much gratified to behold several fine animals, in the full enjoyment 
of strength and of vigor, which had more than attained their twen- 
tieth year. 

It might prove nationally remunerative if all of her Britannic 
Majesty's subjects would permit the creatures over which they exercise 
legal ownership to live and to labor for their natural terms of exist- 
ence. However, during the glorious days of post chaises, the horses 
for these vehicles generally cost £30, while, as an average, they ex- 
isted upon the road only two years. 

What a sacrifice of life and of money I Each horse cost the post- 



PREFACE. 11 

master £15 yearly ; while the animals working for the queen, and 
drawing carriages not conspicuous for lightness, if bought originally 
for a like sum, would not cost more than £1 per annum. The con- 
trast is certainly startling. But to perfect it, there remain to picture 
the sorry jade which was formerly harnessed to the public chaise, 
and the stately creature which, in all the delight of beauty, accom- 
panies Royalty to the Parliament House. 

But there are other items to be considered before the opposite 
accounts can be fairly placed one against the other. A post-house 
generally was a pest-house. The miserable inhabitants of such a build- 
ing did not suddenly die off, but, like other things, horses rocked to 
and fro before they fell. The closing scene of life was heralded by many 
fits of sickness, each of which was of varying duration. Were we to 
reckon the money which loss of services abstracted, the extra cost of 
those attentions which are imperative when health is failing, and the 
hard cash paid for veterinary assistance, very probably a far wider 
distance than at first glance is apparent would divide the Royal 
Mews from the sheds which used to form a part of every large 
roadside hotel. 

In the writer's conviction, humanity toward animals should be 
more commonly practiced — if not from any higher motive, because it 
is certainly the truest economy. To make this fact plain is the in- 
tention of the present publication. To prove that horses are gifted 
with something beyond the mere sensation which is common to all 
moving things is the object of the present work. To convince the 
public, by appealing to the eye and to the understanding through the 
means of engravings and of letter-press, that the equine race inherit 
higher feelings than the vast majority of mankind are prepared to 
admit, is the purpose of the book now in the hands of the reader. 
To demonstrate how closely nature has associated man and horse in 
their liabilities and in their diseases — to induce men, by informing 
their sympathies, to treat more tenderly the timid life which is dis- 
posed to serve and is also willing to love them — is the highest 
reward the author of the following pages can picture to himself. 

When making the foregoing acknowledgments, the author does not 
affect to disdain that recompense which is the due of every person 



12 PREFACE. 

who labors in any arduous pursuit. This, of course, he accepts. 
Though it did not enter into his thoughts when contemplating the 
composition of the present book, it nevertheless may have stimulated 
his exertions to perfect it. But, in addition to any weight that can 
be attached to such a motive, he desired to compose a work which 
should render the gentleman who had consulted it independent of his 
groom's dictation ; which should enable any person who had read it 
capable of talking to a veterinary surgeon without displaying either 
total ignorance or pitiable prejudice; which, in cases of emergency, 
might direct the uninitiated in the primary measures necessary to 
arrest the progress of disease ; and which, when professional assist- 
ance could not be obtained, might even instruct the novice how to 
treat equine disorders in such a manner as would afford a reasonable 
prospect of success. 

When the regular diet and simple lives of most horses are regarded, 
the latter expectations certainly do not seem beyond the reach of 
human ambition. Cleanly and simple remedies alone are required ; 
and these gentlemen of the highest rank may, without fear of taint 
or of ridicule, condescend to prescribe. To secure such an end, the 
present book has been written in plain language. The author has 
endeavored to eschew hieroglyphics and to avoid technicalities. The 
meaning has shaped the terms employed, and all the graces of style 
have been intentionally discarded. 

In conclusion, the author has to thank the publishers for the very 
handsome shape in which they have been pleased to embody his 
efforts ; likewise he has to acknowledge an obligation to the skill 
and the ability with which the Messrs. Dalziel have seconded his 
endeavors. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

The Brain and Nervous System— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Phrenitis — Abscess within the Brain. 19 
Staggers — Sleepy Staggers and Mad 

Staggers 20 

Megrims 24 

Hydrophobia 27 



Tetanus 28 

Stringhalt 33 

Partial Paralysis 36 

Gutta Serena 38 



CHAPTER II. 

The Eyes— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Simple Ophthalmia 42 

Specific Ophthalmia 46 

Cataract 54 



Fungoid Tumors within the Sub- 
stance of the Eye 57 

Lacerated Eyelid 60 

Impediment in the Lachrymal Duct.. 61 



. CHAPTER III. 
The Mouth— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Excoriated Angles of the Mouth 64 

Parrot Mouth 66 

Lampas 67 

Injuries to the Jaw 69 



Aphtha 73 

Lacerated Tongue 74 

Teeth 78 

Scald Mouth 82 



CHAPTER IV. 

The Nostrils— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 

Cold 84 I Nasal Gleet 91 

Nasal Polypus 88 | Highblowing and Wheezing 94 



CHAPTER V. 
The Throat— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Sore Throat 96 

Cough 99 

Laryngitis 101 

Roaring 106 



Choking 110 

Rupture and Stricture of the 

CEsophagus 115 

Bronchocele 119 

(13) 



14 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER VI. 
The Chest and its Contents— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Congestion in the Field 121 

Congestion in the Stable 123 

Bronchitis, or Inflammation of the 
Air-passages 125 



Pneumonia, or Inflammation of the 

Lungs 130 

Pleurisy 136 

Hy drothorax 139 

Disease of the Heart 143 



CHAPTER VII. 
The Stomach, Liver, etc.— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Spasm of the Diaphragm 145 

Acute Gastritis 147 

Chronic Gastritis 150 



Bots 152 

Chronic Hepatitis 158 

Crib-biting 162 



CHAPTER VIII. 
The Abdomen — Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Enteritis 165 

Acute Dysentery 172 

Chronic Dysentery 175 

Acites, or Dropsy of the Abdomen.. 178 
Influenza 181 



Abdominal Injuries 184 

Worms 190 

Spasmodic Colic; Fret; Gripes 194 

Windy Colic 199 



CHAPTER IX. 
The Urinary Organs— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 

Calculi 213 



Nephritis, or Inflammation of the 
Kidneys 204 

Cystitis, or Inflammation of the 
Bladder 209 

Spasm of the Urethra 212 



Hematuria, or Bloody Urine 215 

Diabetes Insipidus, or Profuse Stal- 
ing 217 

Albuminous Urine 218 



CHAPTER X. 



The Skin— Its Accidents and its Diseases. 



Mange 220 

Prurigo 226 

Ring-worm 227 

Surfeit 229 

Hide-bound 231 

Lice 232 



Larva in the Skin.. 



Warts 235 

Tumors 237 

Swollen Legs 239 

Sitfast 240 

Grease 242 

Mallenders and Sallenders 249 



233 Cracked Heels 250 



CONTENTS. 



15 



CHAPTER XI. 
Specific Diseases— Their Varieties and their Treatment. 



Broken Wind 254 

Melanosis 259 

Water Farcy 262 

Purpura Hemorrhagica 265 



Strangles 267 

Glanders 274 

Farcy 282 



CHAPTER XII. 
Limbs— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Osseous Deposits — Spavin 286 

Splint 294 

Ring-bone 298 

Strain of the Flexor Tendon 300 

Clap of the Back Sinews 302 

Sprain of the Back Sinews 303 

Breaking Down 304 

Curb 306 

Occult Spavin 808 



Rheumatism 812 

Wind-galls 815 

Bog Spavin 318 

Thorough-pin 319 

Capped Knee 321 

Capped Hock 321 

Capped Elbow 324 

Luxation of the Patella 325 

Blood Spavin 328 



CHAPTER XIII. 

The Feet— Their Accidents and their Diseases. 



Lameness 330 

Pumice Foot 839 

Sandcrack 342 

False Quarter 845 

Seedy Toe 846 

Tread and Overreach 348 

Corns 349 

Quittor 354 



Canker 858 

Thrush 363 

Ossified Cartilages 366 

Acute Laminitis, or Fever in the 

Feet 367 

Subacute Laminitis 375 

Navicular Disease 377 



CHAPTER XIV. 
Injuries— Their Nature and their Treatment. 



Poll Evil 388 

Fistulous Withers 891 

Fistulous Parotid Duct 394 

Phlebitis, or Inflammation of the 
Vein 398 



Broken Knees 404 

Open Synovial Cavities 412 

Open Synovial Joints 418 

Wounds 423 



CHAPTER XV. 
Operations. 



Operations 434 

Tracheotomy 448 

Periosteotomy 449 



Neurotomy 451 

Division of the Tendons 457 

Quittor 462 



THE 



ILLUSTRATED HOUSE DOCTOR. 



CHAPTER I. 



THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR 

DISEASES. 



PHRENITIS. 



Phrenitis implies inflammation of the brain. Madness and extreme 
violence are the consequences. The animal, in this condition, disregards 
all recognitions, and, apparently, loses all timidity. It suffers the 




A HORSE MAD, OE WITH INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN. 

greatest agony, and no terror can appal it. It would rejoice, could it 
anticipate the effects, if the mouth of a loaded cannon were pointed 

2 (It) 



Ig P H 11 E N I T 1 S. 

toward itself, and would look for relief when the portfire descended 
upon the touch-hole. Every movement seems designed to end its own 
existence ; but the furor has no malice in it. The creature strives only 
to injure himself. It may in its efforts shatter and demolish the struc- 
tures which surround it; but it does so without intention. That is 
merely the result of its being carried away beyond the things of this 
world by a mighty anguish. It desires harm to no one ; but it cannot 
remain quiescent, and endure the torment which rages within its skull. 

When this stage of the malady appears, the best thing is to antici- 
pate the evident wish of the animal. The teaching of schools, which 
instructs young men to meddle with the strength of an infuriated horse, 
is mere prattle. However, if the disease, as it seldom happens, is per- 
ceived approaching, something may be attempted. Before the violence 
commences, the horse is generally dull. It does not obey the rein or 
answer to the lash. It is heavy beyond man's control. It snores as it 
breathes. The lids drop ; the head sinks ; the body is cold ; the mem- 
brane of the nose is leaden in color; and, from being the obedient, 
watchful, and willing slave, its entire nature appears to have changed. 
It does not attend to the goad, and the voice of the driver may bawl in 
the harshest key, but the sound which used to excite seems unheard and 
is unheeded. 

The remedy for the earlier stage is copious blood-letting. Open 
both jugulars and allow the current to flow till the countenance bright- 
ens or the animal sinks. Bleed again and again, if necessary. Give 
purgatives of double strength, and repeat them every three hours, till 
the bowels are copiously relieved or the pulse changes, or the general 
appearance indicates improvement. Afterward, administer sedatives, 
always as infusions. A scruple of tobacco, half a drachm of aconite 
root, or a drachm of digitalis should have a pint of hot water poured 
upon it. When the liquid is nearly cold, it should be strained, and the 
dose may be repeated every half hour, until its operation is witnessed 
in the more quiet behavior of the animal. 

In the generality of cases, however, no opportunity for such treat- 
ment is presented. The disease is most common in the agricultural dis- 
tricts, and is usually seen where carters indulge their passion in the 
butt-end of the whip employed upon the horse's head. The cause is, 
however, carefully concealed, and, after the violent stage has set in, the 
original wound is generally mistaken for some self-inflicted injury. 
Thus, the horse, even in the most horrid of deaths, with a generosity 
characteristic of its nature, contrives to shield the being whom it served 
and loved, from the consequences of his inhumanity. 

Should the animal, by such means, recover, treat it gently ; do not 



ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 19 

excite it; for phrenitis is apt to return. Even recovery is not always 
to be wished for. The depletion, imperative for the cure, too often 
engenders the weakness which no care can eradicate ; and the animal 
survives only to change from the willing servant into a troublesome 
valetudinarian. 

ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 

This sad affection is invariably produced by external injury. A horse 
runs away and comes in contact with some hard substance. The blow 
is of sufficient violence to fracture the strong cranium of the quadruped 
and to smash all that remains harnessed to the animal. Here we have 
a reason why man should establish more than a brutal mastery over the 




A HORSE DYIMO FROM ABSCESS WITHIN THE BRAIN. 

animal he possesses. The horse is the most timid of creatures. It, 
however, quickly learns to recognize the voice of its owner. In its vast 
affection, it soon trusts with confidence to the person who is kind to it. 
An occasional word thrown to a patient and willing servant, spoken 
softly to the animal which is putting forth all its strength for our pleas- 
ure, would not be cast away. When dread overpowers the horse and it 
begins to run at its topmost speed, do not pull the reins : the first check 
should be given by the voice. Speak cheerfully to a timid creature. If 
the first word produces no effect, repeat it. Watch the ears. If these 
are turned backward to catch the accents, talk encouragingly to the 
horse. The voice of one it loves will restore its confidence. The pace 
will slacken. Talk on, but always in a tone calculated to soothe dis- 
tress. Then gently touch the reins. The first gentle movement may 
not be responded to, but the second or the third will be ; and the animal, 
released from terror, is once more under your control. 

This is much better than tugging and flogging, which obviously are 
thrown away upon a body that horror has deprived of sensation. The 



20 STAGGERS. 

noise and the resistance but feed the wildness of the fear, and, in the 
end, the driver is carried to a hospital, the horse being laid prostrate 
among the ruins it has made. 

When led back to the stable, a wound is discovered on the animal's 
forehead. It is so small it is deemed of no consequence. A little 
water oozes from it — that is all — it does not send forth matter, or it 
might deserve attention. However, in a short time the horse becomes 
dull. It will not eat. Soon it falls down and commences dashing its 
head upon the pavement. There it lies, and, day and night, continues 
its dreadful occupation. One side of the face is terribly excoriated, and 
must be acutely painful ; but the horrid labor still goes on, each stroke 
shaking the solid earth, which it indents. At last death ends the misery, 
and a small abscess, containing about half a drachm of healthy pus, is 
discovered in the superficial substance of the brain. 

Physic or operation is of no use here. The cranium of the horse is 
covered by the thick temporalis muscles. This alone would prevent the 
trephine being resorted to. Blood would follow the removal of any 
portion of the skull. Besides, what or who is to keep the head still 
during the operation? and, were the operation possible, who would 
own an animal with a hole in its skull ? The only means of cure would 
be to afford exit to the matter ; and to do that is beyond human in- 
genuity. 

STAGGERS— SLEEPY STAGGERS AND MAD STAGGERS. 

Staggers means no more than a staggering or unsteady gait; an 
incapacity in the limbs to support the body. It therefore, by itself, 
represents only that want of control over voluntary motion which 
generally accompanies injuries to the brain. Mad and sleepy staggers 
represent only different symptoms or stages of cerebral affection. 
Sleepy staggers implies the dull stage, which indicates that the brain 
is oppressed. Mad staggers denotes the furious stage, when the brain 
has become acutely inflamed. 

There is but one origin known for staggers, and that is over-feeding. 
Carters take the team out and forget the nose-bags. The omission is 
not discovered till far on the road. No thought is entertained of turn- 
ing back. The poor drudges, consequently, have to journey far, to pull 
hard and long upon empty stomachs. 

When home is at length reached, the driver thinks to make amends 
for neglect ; the rack and manger are loaded. Such animals as are not 
too tired to feed, eat ravenously. The stomach is soon ci*ammed ; but 
fatigue has weakened the natural instincts, and domestication has taught 
the horse to depend entirely on man. The creature continues to feed, 



STAGGERS. 21 

till a distended stomach produces an oppressed brain. An uneasy sleep 
interrupts the gormandizing. The eye closes and the head droops. 
Suddenly the horse awakens with a start. It looks around, becomes 
assured and takes another mouthful. However, before mastication can 
be completed, sleep intervenes, and the morsel falls from the mouth or 
continues retained between the jaws. 

This state may continue for days. The horse may perish without 
recovering its sensibility; or mad staggers may at any period succeed, 
and the animal exhibit the extreme of violence. 

Mad staggers equally results from carelessness in the horsekeeper. 
The animal which gives itself up entirely to the custody of man, too 
often experiences a fearful return in recompense for its trustfulness. 
Any neglect with regard to the feeding of a horse, may entail the 
worst ; and a most cruel death upon the inhabitant of the stable is too 
often its reward. The groom, perhaps, may slight his work, lock the 
stable door and hurry to his beer-shop, leaving the lid of the corn-bin 
unclosed. The horse in his stall, with his exquisite sense of smell, 
scents the provender and becomes restless. His desire is to escape from 
the halter. With fatal ingenuity the object is accomplished, and the 
next moment the animal stands with its nose among the coveted oats. 
It eats and eats as only that being can whose highest pleasures are 
limited to animal enjoyments. After a time it becomes lethargic ; but 
from that state it is soon aroused by a burning thirst. The corn has 
absorbed all the moisture of the stomach, the viscus being dry and dis- 
tended. Pain must be felt, but thirst is the predominant feeling. Water 
is sought for. None is to be found ; and the sufferer takes his station 
near the door, to await the appearance of his attendant. 

No sooner is the entrance opened, than the quadruped dashes out. 
With all speed it makes for the nearest pond. There it drinks the long 
and the sweet draught few in this life can taste ; but to know which, is 
to die a terrible death. The corn swells more with the liquid imbibed. 
The stomach is now stretched to the uttermost. Continued tension 
causes inflammation. The brain sympathizes, and the horse speedily 
becomes acutely phrenitic. 

There is, however, a strange symptom, in which the two disorders 
appear mingled. The sleepy fit is not entirely removed, nor are the 
violent symptoms fully developed. The horse, in this condition, will 
press its head against a wall. In doing this, it only displays an impulse 
common to most animals in the sleepy stage ; but the peculiarity is, that 
the eye may be half unclosed and the limbs vigorously employed, as 
though a trotting match were going forward. The breath will quicken 
and the creature be coated with perspiration. This attitude and motion 



22 



STAGGERS. 



may subside, and recovery may ensue; but commonly the quadruped 
drops, moves the limbs as it lies upon the ground, and is only quieted 
by death. In a few instances horses have left the wall to exhibit the 
utmost violence, and to sink at last. 

When corn has been gorged during the night, the animal must be 
rigidly kept from drinking. A quart of any oil should be immediately 
administered. A pint of oil is the ordinary dose; but here there exists 
more than an ordinary disease. Besides, much of the fluid will sink 
between the grains," and, probably, not half of it will reach the mem- 
brane of the stomach. 

Oil is preferable to the solution of aloes, which is generally given, 
inasmuch as it will not act upon or swell the corn so readily as any 
medicine dissolved in water. Should no amendment be detected, in six 
hours repeat the dose. In another six hours, give another dose with 
twenty drops of croton oil in it. When another period has elapsed, 
should no improvement be noted, give thirty drops of croion in another 
quart of oil. Should none of these drinks have taken effect, the round 
must once more be gone over. However, at the slightest mitigation of 
the symptoms or even suspicion of amendment, stop all medicine at 
once. The altered aspect of the horse is the earliest symptom that the 
distention is relieved. 

In sleepy staggers, the head hangs pendulous or is pressed firmly 




8LEEPT 8TAG0ERS, FROM OVER-GORGING. 



against some prominence. The pulse throbs heavily — the breathing is 
laborious, and the animal snores at each inspiration. The eye is closed; 
the skin cold and the coat staring. The nasal membrane leaden. The 



._ J 



STAGGERS. 



23 



mouth clammy ; the ears motionless ; the tail without movement, and 
the breathing alone testifies that it is a living animal we look upon. 

The signs that announce the advent of mad staggers, from whichever 
cause the disease may arise, are always alike. The lid is raised, and 
the eye assumes an unnatural brightness. The nasal membrane reddens; 
the surface becomes as hot as it was previously deficient in warmth; the 
movements are quick and jerking. The breath is no longer laborious — 
it is rapid, sharp, and drawn with a kind of panting action. The whole 
appearance is altered. The characteristics of approaching frenzy can 
hardly be mistaken. 

Then comes the most painful duty of ownership over life. The pro- 
prietor has, then, to make a speedy choice, whether his dumb servant is 
to take a desperate chance and undergo a torture for which the con- 
centrated pleasure of many lives could not atone, or be deprived of the 
fatal power to injure others and itself. Humanity would unhesitatingly 
pronounce for death, and, iu this case, there is need of haste. The 
symptoms are so rapidly matured, that, in ten minutes, the poor horse 
may be sadly hurt and bleeding, panting and rearing, in the center of a 




THE HORSE BURINO THE MAD STAGE OP 8TAG0ERS. 



desolated stable. A mad horse is a terrible object! Its strength is so 
vast that ordinary fastenings yield before it; but the animal, even when 
deprived of reason, wins our respect. Suffering will find expression in 
energetic action. Man, when a tooth is about to be extracted, generally 



24 MEGRIMS. 

clinches something ; but what were a hundred teeth to the agony which 
causes every fiber in the huge framework to quiver ? The perspiration 
rolls off the creature's body. The eye glares with anguish, not with 
malice; the body is strangely contorted, but there is no desire to in- 
jure. Who, contemplating such a picture, could forbear speaking the 
word which should grant peace to the sufferer, although the order neces- 
sitate some violence to the feelings of him who is invested with power to 
command ? 

MEGRIMS. 

So little sympathy exists between man and horse, so little are the 
ailments of the animal really studied, that the likeness between certain 
diseases affecting the master and the servant have not been observed. 
Megrims, evidently, is a form of epilepsy ; yet, to speak of an epileptic 
horse would, probably, induce laughter in any society. Notwithstand- 
ing which, man is not isolated in this world : he is associated with the 
creatures of the earth not only by a common habitation, but by similar 
wants and like diseases. He is united by nature to every life that 
breathes. His heart should feel for, and his charity embrace, every 
animal which serves him. He has his duty toward, and is bound by 
obligations to, every creature placed under his control. None are so 
subject to his will as is the horse ; none have such powerful claims to 
his kindness and forbearance. The noble animal is begotten by man's 
permission ; its course in life depends upon his word : for his service it 
surrenders everything — freedom, companions, and paternity — it relin- 
quishes all. Its owner's pleasure becomes its delight; its master's pro- 
fit is its recreation. It is the perfect type of an abandoned slave ; body 
and soul, it devotes itself to captivity. It is sad to think how bitter is 
its recompense, when an obvious similarity, even in aflliction, has not to 
this hour been recognized. 

Megrims, like epilepsy in man, will in certain subjects appear only 
during some kind of exertion. In others, it will be present only during 
particular states of rest. It is uncertain in its attacks. It is not under- 
stood ; and of the many theories which have been advanced, none ex- 
plain it. 

All horses may show megrims; some when at work, and some only 
while in the stable ; others in the glare of day, and a few during the 
darkness of night ; but of all, draught horses are the most liable to the 
malady. This may be because harness horses are subjected to the most 
laborious and most continuous species of toil. A horse fettered to a 
vehicle obviously must strain to propel as much or as long as the person 
intrusted with the whip thinks the animal should draw. Men's con- 



MEGRIM S. 25 

sciences, where their own convenience and another's exertions are the 
stake, generally possess an elastic property. It takes a great deal to 
stretch them to the utmost. An Arabian proverb says, "it is the last 
feather which breaks the camel's back;" but the English driver knows 
the entire pull is upon the collar, and he is moved by no considerations 
about the back. If the whip cannot flog the poor flesh onward, a shout 
and a heavy kick under the belly may excite the spasm, which, in its 
severity, shall put the load in motion. 

Age does not influence the liability to megrims. The colt, which has 
done no work, may exhibit the disease, and the old stager may not be 
subject to its attacks. One horse may die in the field from exertion and 
never display the malady ; another shall be led through the streets and 
exemplify megrims in all its severity. One shall be merely dull — the 
disorder shall never get to the acute stage, though the fits may be re- 
peated. This last, to the surprise of its master, shall every now and 
then stop, stare about, and proceed as though nothing were the matter. 
A second, when mounted, will be seized by a sudden impulse and run 
into shop doors; while a third, being between the shafts, will be pos- 
sessed with an irrepressible desire to inspect the driver's boots. 

The horse often becomes suddenly stubborn. The reins are jagged 
and the whip plied to no purpose. The animal will only go its own 
way, which is commonly beset with danger. Perhaps, it may persist 
upon galloping, head foremost, down an open sewer; probably, it will 
rush up the steps leading to some mansion, and beat the door in with 
tremendous knocking. 

Then come convulsions, followed by insensibility. If such a scene 
occur in a city, of course a crowd collects. Opinions are noisy and 
various; but a majority incline toward 
bleeding from the mouth. It is only to 
cut the palate, and a dozen knives, already 
opened, ai"e proffered for the purpose. 
However, let the person in charge attend 
to no street suggestion. Let him at once 
seat himself upon the horse's head, and re- 
main there till consciousness returns ; then 
speak kindly to the sufferer, loosen the har- 
ness, and take care that the animal is per- 
fectly recovered before it is permitted to 
rise. 

THE EXPRESSION CHARACTERISTIC OP 

Dealers pretend that a horse subject to repeated attacks of megrims. 
megrims is to be readily told. A horse, after repeated fits, is easily 
singled out ; but the animal which has experienced only a single attack, 




26 MEGRIMS. 

no man could challenge. One attack, however severe may be its char- 
acter, will not necessarily leave its impress upon the countenance. But 
the creature subject to such visitations soon assumes a heavy, flaccid, 
and stupid expression. The disease distorts no feature, but it leaves its 
mark behind; and any man, acquainted with the subject, would have 
no difficulty in picking from a drove the horse which has endured re- 
peated fits of this disorder. 

Another class of knowing ones pretend they can drive a megrimed 
horse any distance, by simply keeping a wet cloth over the brain. This 
last experiment is, however, not inviting; ar)d the author has yet to be 
assured by science that a wet rag over the brain would repose upon 
the primary seat of the disease. 

When a horse has the first fit of megrims, at once throw the animal 
up. Do not strive to sell the diseased creature, as such a sale is illegal. 
The law presumes everything sold to be fit for its uses. Thus, a person 
buying rotten eggs can recover at law, because eggs are sold for human 
food, and no man can eat a tainted egg. So a megrimed horse is unfit 
for employment. Recovery in this disease is always doubtful. A chance 
is best secured by throwing the horse up on the first attack. Do not 
turn a sick animal out to grass. Keep in a loose box, covered with 
plenty of straw. Feed liberally, and with the best food. Have the 
body regularly dressed, and the animal led to, not ridden to, exercise. 
Allow a quart of stout every morning and half a pint of oil every night. 
Above all things, attend to the stabling. Let the box be large and well 
ventilated. Food is eaten but occasionally during the day. Air is as 
essential as more substantial nutriment to life, and is consumed night 
and day. Food has to undergo a complicated change, and to travel far, 
before it joins the blood. Air is no sooner inhaled than it is imme- 
diately absorbed by the blood. After such a statement, it is left to the 
reader's reason to decide upon the importance of pure air toward sus- 
taining health. Probably, were stables erected with a little less regard 
to the proprietor's expense and the builder's convenience ; probably, were 
they made in some degree proportioned to the magnitude of their future 
inhabitants, and were the comfort of the captive a very little considered 
in their construction, — the health of a horse might not be so very telling 
a proverb ; while megrims, under a better treatment, if it did not dis- 
appear, might not be so very common. 



HYDROPHOBIA. 



2t 



HYDROPHOBIA. 

This is always the fruit of contagion, received from some stable-pet, 
iu the shape of a dog or cat. It is essentially a nervous disorder. 
From the first, it influences the brain to a degree which no other malady 
seems capable of exercising. The animal constantly licks some portion 
of the body. The place appears to itch violently, and the tongue is 
applied with an energy and a perseverance highly characteristic of an 
over-wrought nervous distemper. The appetite always is aflPected; 
sometimes it is ravenous. The rack is not only emptied with unusual 
speed, but the bed, however soiled, is also consumed with more than 
apparent relish. Generally, however, the desire for provender is de- 
stroyed. Sometimes, the longing for fluids is morbidly increased. The 
horse plunges his head to the bottom of the pail, will bite at the groom 
who endeavors to interrupt the draught, or seize the wood between its 
teeth and crush it with a powerful gripe. More frequently, water will 
cause spasm, and be avoided with horror. The animal's likings may be 
morbidly changed: it will occasionally devour its own excrement, and 
lick up its emissions. 

The nervous system is always highly developed. The horse starts at 
the smallest sound, trembles violently without a cause, flies backward, 
hangs upon the halter, stares wildly, 
and bursts into a copious sweat 
without any apparent reason being 
detected. Its voice is also changed, 
and the expression of the counte- 
nance invariably altered. The neigh 
is squeaking, and the face is at the 
commencement characterized by 
immense anxiety, which is soon 
changed for a peculiar aspect of 
cunning, mixed with a grinning 

ferocitv. '^^^ countenance op a horse tvith hydrophobia. 

Rarely, however, all the foregoing symptoms are absent. The horse 
is harnessed and taken to work. Suddenly it stops, appears stupid, 
and threatens to fall. In a short time it recovers, and the labor is 
proceeded with. The fits occur again and again. At length they 
end in violent shivering. When the tremor ceases, the recognition 
is not perfectly recovered. The breathing is quick and sharp; the 
eye bright and wild. The animal is turned homeward, but seldom 
reaches the stable before the furious stage begins. 




28 



TETANUS. 



Hydrophobia is commonly matured before the expiration of the sixth 
week, A fortnight is the earliest period of its appearance; but writers 
have asserted that the imbibed virus will remain dormant for twelve 
months. The author has no experience which justifies the last opinion. 

Whenever a suspicion of this incui-able and horrible disorder is enter- 
tained, place the horse by itself in a building with bare walls, but capa- 







THE DESTRUCTIVE IMPULSE OF HYDROPHOBIA. 



ble of being looked into through a window. Put food and water in the 
house, and, if the door be not strong, have it barricaded. Let no one 
enter for at least three days, as, during this disease, the horse is both 
mischievous and dangerous. The pain is such that it seeks relief in 
destruction. All breathing and moving creatures first attract its rage ; 
but, wanting these, its frenzy is expended in breaking, rending, and 
scattering inanimate objects. Its ability to destroy is only limited by 
the duration of the disorder. 

Let as few people as possible be near the hydrophobic horse. The 
quadruped's nerves are then alive to every impression. The presence 
will be detected, though the person be assiduously concealed. The 
sound of breathing even adds to the torture. Keep all people away 
but one; and that one should be the best shot in the neighborhood. 
Let him approach, aim steadily, and pull the trigger ; for a bullet well 
placed is the only remedy the author knows which can stay this fearful 
disorder. 

TETANUS. 

Tetanus is defined to be spasm of the muscles of voluntary motion. 
That definition is right, as far as it goes. The disease, however, is the 
same in man and horse. The human being complains of the breathing 



TETANUS. 29 

being much oppressed, and of pain at the pit of the stomach. Such 
complaints show the diaphragm to be involved, while the large doses 
of strong medicine which can be swallowed with impunity prove the 
abdominal contents have not escaped. Therefore, the author re^-ards 
tetanus as spasm of the entire muscular system. 

A horse of any age may exhibit tetanus. Colts, newly dropped, have 
displayed the disorder, and all animals are liable to its attacks ; but the 
very aged are least subject to this malady. Animals of a highly nerv- 
ous temperament are most inclined toward it. 

It is said to be of two kinds ; but, in truth, it only has two origins. 
Traumatic tetanus is when it springs from a wound ; idiopathic tetanus 
is when it appears without there being any known lesion to account for 
its presence. It may display its symptoms immediately or within a 
month of the injury. From the sixth to the fourteenth day is the most 
likely period for the advent of the disorder. 

Cold, rain, draughts of air, and too much light, are all likely to ori- 
ginate it. Their potency, perhaps, ranges in the order they are placed. 
A gentleman is apt to dismount at some hospitable house and to leave 
the animal, which has quickly borne him thither, shivering in the night 
air. The master enjoys himself, probably, more than is good for his 
health. The patient steed waits and waits, more quietly than the most 
faithful of human slaves. It shivers in the night air ; its limbs become 
cramped with the cold. The wind gets up, as the owner, before a cheer- 
ful fire, mixes another glass and takes another cigar. Still the horse 
remains almost in the spot where it was placed. The perspiration which 
covered the body dries in the darkness ; evaporation quickly chills the 
blood which violent exercise had heated. The pulse sinks; spasms creep 
over the frame, but there is none near to note them. In solitude and 
discomfort the most painful of maladies is imbibed: in due time it 
breaks forth, to the astonishment of the proprietor. 

Another man rides far and fast through a heavy shower. He reaches 
a distant house and flings himself from the saddle, fastening the horse 
to the door-post. Cordials are ready for the man, and business is dis- 
cussed over a glass. No one thinks seriously of the poor life fastened 
to the door-post. "The horse is wet and can take no harm." "The 
gallop home will warm it," and so forth. Therefore, the animal re- 
mains, to be drenched by the rain and to creep as near to the house as 
it may for partial shelter; the posterior pai*t of the body, however, pro- 
jects, and the drops fall, heavy and cold as lead, upon the loins of the 
patient beast. The blood loses its warmth and the limbs their elasticity. 
When the owner again crosses the saddle he may be jolly; but it needs 
both spur and whip to cause the dripping and frozen animal to move. 



30 



TETANUS. 



When tetanus originates in some wound, the horse is generally nerv- 
ous from the first. It fidgets in the stall; it lacks the repose which 
usually sits so beautifully upon the sick horse's frame. It is excited at 
the approach of any person, and, commonly, very obstinate when given 
physic. The wound may, nevertheless, be healthy. Sometimes, as the 
outbreak draws near, the wound may rapidly close, become morbidly 
dry, or, instead of pus, send forth only a foul and scanty serum. Instances 
are narrated of tetanus supervening upon mortification ; but such re- 
ported cases are, in the horse, very rare. Commonly, the wound pre- 
sents no appearance by which any man, however profound his knowledge, 
could guess the consequence to which it had given rise. 

Tetanus is announced by an appearance of excitement. The tail is 
erect; the ears pointed forward; the head elevated; the legs stiffened 

and stretched out. This aspect 
of excitement is not temporary. 
The groom passes through the 
stable and the attitude is main- 
tained. He wonders "what ails 
the horse ?" It seems all alive ; 
yet, though the groom shout out 
" come over," the order is obeyed 
with difficulty. The food is not 
eaten. It is picked and strewed 
about, but not devoured. When 

THE TEST FOR TETANUS, WHEN NOT FULLY DEVELOPEB. maStCr TetUmS hOmC, thC grOOm 

wishes he would "just look " at the horse. It is very strange indeed ! 
Why, the tail is quivering and the body feels quite hard — not like flesh. 
Hopes are expressed and the "veterinary" sent for. He proceeds at 
once to the manger, observing the animal as he approaches. With one 
hand he raises the horse's head. The haw is projected over the eye, and 
a case of tetanus is recognized. 

Most persons know what bellyache and cramp are. Well, these are 
but spasms affecting different parts of the body : tetanus is spasm affect- 
ing every part of the body at the same time. The spasm is always pres- 
ent; but it admits of aggravation. Any painful operation, any sudden 
fright, or the slightest sound, will produce a paroxysm, during which the 
horse's body is fearfully contorted ; and the animal writhes as it falls to 
the ground. Left alone, however, the horse may rise after some time; 
for nothing causes the quadruped so much dread as an inability to stand. 
It may totter or fall about, but it refuses to lie down, even though rest 
must be greatly needed and would act as the best of medicine. It stands 
day after day in the same spot. It does not move, as any motion may 




TETANUS. 



31 



bring on one of those terrible paroxysms. The matter is rendered worse 
by the brain, during the entire period, being sensible. Every pain is 
felt, and the wretched animal has leisure to appreciate its agony. This 
is bad enough; but the torture is aggravated by the appetite of the 
animal not being dormant. Hunger still exists, and a sense of starva- 
tion augments the suffering. The jaw is closely locked. The creature 
cannot feed ; but the presence of hunger is no supposition, for if a 
mash be held to the mouth, with a look of piteous gratitude the liquid 
portion is often drawn through the closed teeth. Hunger frequently 
impels the horse to make a desperate effort. The jaws are forced a lit- 
tle way asunder; a morsel is seized between the incisors; mastication 
commences, but cannot be perfected. The agony attendant upon motion 
forces the famishing creature to desist; and the poor horse is often found 
with a mouthful of hay firmly clenched and hanging from the mouth. 

The animal may have been conspicuous for its beauty. The harmony 
of form may, in it, have been united to agility of limb. The creature 




SHOWISa HOW PAR AN ANIMAL WITH THE DISEASE IS CAPABLE OP MOTION. 



may have been the pride of its proprietor ; but a few days of this disease 
will work a mighty change. The limbs are moved with difficulty ; the 
body has lost all its undulating grace; and the flesh has parted with its 
elasticity. The master in vain seeks for the object of his admiration in 
the painful sight which he then looks upon. 



32 TETANUS. 

One peculiarity of tetanus is too marked not to be noticed. Persons 
have complained of the wooden appearance of the body; but, in severe 
cases, the height of the animal seems diminished and the length shortened. 
This appearance is more than the result of mere imagination. Many of 
the bones are divided by a fibro- cartilaginous substance: this substance 
force can compress. For that reason, a man is shorter when he retires 
at night than when he rises in the morning. No weight, however, can 
act with the energy of excited contractibility, and of that tetanus is 
composed : all the muscles are violently in action or energetically con- 
tracting. A single muscle, when excited, shortens to that degree, which 
moves some portion of the body, but, when the entire mass of muscles 
simultaneously contract, they compress the frame, as in a vice. The 
grace of the animal is lost; the height is diminished, and the length is 
lessened, under so powerful and general an action. 

All kinds of treatment have been tried for tetanus, and it is said that 
each has resulted in success. The majority of these popular methods, 
however, are sheer barbarities ; and if they were successful, they were so 
against probability. The plan at present adopted is much more humane : 
the animal's shoes are removed, that no sound may follow the tread, and 
a solitary shed is strewn with refuse tan. Food, in the form of an ample 
malt mash and a pail of thin gruel, is placed within easy reach. The 
shed must be approached but once daily — then by the man most accus- 
tomed to the horse ; and he speaks soothingly as he nears the building 
to change the provender. 

This species of treatment, when preceded by a large dose of purgative 
medicine, is usually successful. Mix four drachms of aloes or six drachms 
of aloetic mass, and four drachms of extract of gentian, with one scruple 
of croton ferina. This tremendous purgative may be confidently given, 
as everything during this disease depends upon the maintenance of quiet, 
and upon getting the bowels open. 

As all people, however, may not live where solitude can be com- 
maiided ; then, give the purgative, render the room dark, and allow as 
few cui'ious visitors as the pleading of sincerity cannot prevent intruding 
upon the sick and disabled quadruped. Pulling the animal about to 
administer medicine seems to do more harm than the most powerful 
drugs can counteract. Permit no blisters; sanction no firing: counter- 
irritants, however beneficial in other cases, are positive irritants, when 
applied to a body nervously excited to the highest degree. Grant per- 
mission for no operation to be performed, as any person of ordinary 
imagination may picture the effect of bustle, followed by sharp pain, 
upon a creature which cannot endure even the slightest sound. 

Should, however, the case last so long as to warrant fear of the 



STRINGHALT. 33 

life sinking through starvation, food may be given even in quantities. 
Blood-warm linseed gruel should be procured — a gallon will be sufficient. 




THE MODE OF FEEDING A HORSE WITH CHRONIC TETANUS. 

The horse could swallow more ; but after a prolonged fast there is danger 
in loading the stomach. Fix the horse catheter to the stomach-pump ; 
then place the free end of the catheter in the nostril of the quadruped 
and push it forward, having previously slightly bent the end of the tube 
downward. Should the insertion provoke coughing, withdraw the 
catheter and commence afresh. Two feet of the instrument having dis- 
appeared, and no alarming symptom being present, begin to pump ; do 
this as fast as possible, till the gallon of linseed gruel has been ex- 
hausted : such a resort is, however, better adapted to tetanus of the 
chronic description. 

When applied to the acute form of the disorder, it is too apt to induce 
violent spasm. The acute disease, however, speedily terminates, and 
positive starvation is all but impossible during its brief continuance. 

STRINGHALT. 

Stringhalt is the imperfect development of that form of disease which, 
in man and in dogs, is called chorea, or St. Vitus's dance. In dogs it 
jerks the whole body, even to the face. The lower jaw will continue 
moving and the eye twitching, while the animal is prostrate and asleep. 
In the horse, however, it is seen only in the hind extremities. In the 
dog it will continue during progression, sometimes shaking the creature 
from its balance, and it often terminates in death. In the horse it is 
never fatal ; and, save when about to start, is seldom to be detected. 
Then it causes the hind limbs to be quickly raised in succession. The 
movement is rapid, full of energy, and entirely involuntary. These 

3 



34 



STRINGHALT. 



motions over, the horse proceeds, nor is the symptom usually witnessed 
again till the animal has once more to start ; although a few exceptional 
cases are on record where stringhalt was perceptible at every step. 




A HORSE HAV1N3 STRINGHALT MUST MAKE SEVERAL INVOLUNTART MOVEMENTS WITH THE HIND LEGS 
BEFORE IT CAN PROGRESS. 



Guilford, the racer, exhibited the disease in its worst form. In that 
animal, stringhalt was present in such severity as prevented the signal 
being obeyed before the several eccentric movements had been performed. 
The horse was esteemed good for its purposes ; but the ground lost at 
starting gave away its chances, and it was consequently sold. From the 
pampered stable of the race-horse, it descended rapidly through various 
grades until the creature came to be harnessed to a London omnibus. 
While in that position, the disease was so aggravated that the pastern 
used to hit violently against the belly, till the hair of both was partially 
removed by the repeated blows. The Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty then purchased the miserable carcass for three pounds, and had 
the life and the suffering extinguished. 

The body was given to the Royal Veterinary College for dissection. 
Professor Spooner relates that he found blood effused on the sheath of 
the sacro-sciatic nerve. This, however, must have been an accident pro- 
duced by the death struggle: that nerve moves the flexor muscles. 
Stringhalt is the disease of the extensor muscles only; therefore, the 



S T R 1 N G H A L T. 35 

condition of the nerve alluded to by Professor Spooner could in no way- 
influence the motions of the limb. Messrs. Percivall and Goodwin both 
appeal to instances, where, in animals affected with stringhalt, pressure 
existed upon the posterior portion of the spinal column. The last ob- 
servation accords much more with the writer's notions of cause and 
effect. 

Nevertheless, the inexperienced reader may ask, how can the posterior 
portion of the horse's spinal column become affected ? Of all the ver- 
tebrae, those of the lumbar region are endowed with the greatest motion, 
and consequently are the most exposed to injury. The uses to which 
man puts the animal are not so very gentle but a delicate structure, 
however deeply seated, might be hurt. However, grant all these are 
harmless, which is indeed to allow a great deal to pass, the stables are 
enough to provoke stringhalt in half the horses now resident in London. 
Has the intelligent reader visited these places ? He knows the holes in 
which poor humanity is obliged to stive. Well, any place not good 
enough for a man to live in is esteemed luxurious lodging for a horse. 
Many of the places are undrained ; frequently have light or air admitted 
only by the doorway, and the stalls are seldom more than four feet wide. 
The wretched captives cannot turn their bodies round in the allotted 
space. A horse being in, when wanted abroad, must be backed into the 
gangway, and thus made to "face about." It is not creditable to human 
nature when we perceive its most valuable and willing servant is be- 
grudged the space in which its useful body rests. The labor of the day 
should at least earn for the horse a sufficient bed. 

The exhaustion of the toil — for man has nicely calculated the work a 
horse can perform, and generally exacts the quotum to the full — has 
merited the night's repose, which shall fit for the morrow's fatigue ; but 
man is most particular in all that concerns the quadruped. He has 
reckoned up the food it may eat, the water it may drink, the space it 
may occupy ; the keep, the keeper, the lodging, and the very harness 
that fastens it to the load, — all are precisely calculated. There is no 
law to interpose between man and horse, even should the estimate be run 
"too fine." Against sore shoulders there is some enactment, which is 
only enforced through a constable specially retained by a private associ- 
ation. No clause teaches man his duty toward his inferiors. The lower 
animals have no protection against the exhausting labor and inadequate 
provision that maims a body or wastes a life. 

The servant, observing the master to be without feeling, apes his 
better. A bad example always finds plenty of imitators. The horse 
may be wanted in a hurry; the groom commands it to "come round." 
It is too much trouble to back the animal as usual ; the master is in 



36 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 



haste and the servant has no time to lose. The poor animal endeavors 
to obey ; it squeezes and twists its body : the head is seized, a blow is 
given, and the difficulty is vanquished. But at what a cost ! One bone 
of the spine has been injured. Bone is slow in its developments. No 
immediate consequence results; but months afterward, the injured place 
throws out a spicula of bone, no larger than a needle's point, perhaps, 
but it presses upon the spinal marrow, and lasting stringhalt is the 
effect. 

Of course no drug can reach the part affected ; no cunning prepara- 
tion can remove even a needle's point from the interior of the sjiinal 
canal. The stinghalt, once exhibited, is beyond cure, and never disap- 
pears but with the life. However, it mostly affects high-spirited, nerv- 
ous horses, and not being generally observable during progression, some 
of the quadrupeds thus diseased sell for large sums. 

PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 

Paralysis, in the horse, save when it appears toward the termination 
of violent disorders, is never more than partial. It locates itself in the 




THE UNSTEADY WALK OF A HORSE -WHEN SUFFERING UNDER PARTIAL PARALYSIS OF THE HIND LEGS. 

hind limbs, and, though it does not destroy all motion, yet it destroys all 
strength or utility. The power to move with speed is entirely lost, nor 
is the ability to progress at a slower pace by any means assured. One 



PARTIAL P All ALY SIS. 37 

hind foot is perpetually getting in the way of the other, and constantly 
threatening to throw the animal down, whose walk already is rolling or 
nnsteady. 

This affection is the property of matured animals ; so rarely as to be 
. exceptional is it to be seen attacking colts. Fast trotters, omnibus 
horses, hunters, and creatures subjected to extreme exertion, are most 
liable to it. It creeps on insidiously. At first the pace is as fast as 
ever; but something is suspected wrong in the manner of going. After 
a time the creature is brought to a veterinary surgeon as a lame horse. 
The suspicions are then destroyed and the real malady is announced. 

The decay of the more showy powers seems to bring forward the 
gentler qualities of the horse's nature. The animal, which once was 
dangerous, loses all its dreaded attributes: with paralysis, it becomes 
meek or tame, as though the big life felt its great affliction and sought 
to compensate, by amiability, for the trouble it necessarily gave, or, in 
other words, that the animal, was mildly pleading for existence. No 
doubt much of such a sentiment, if not all, resides in the mind of the 
spectator, the animal only being subdued by sickness. Still, it is very 
sad to contemplate the horse, which once could outstrip the sparrow in 
its flight, reduced to a pace which the tortoise might leave behind ; to 
behold the beast, once powerful and proud of its strength, humbled to a 
feebleness which the push of any child might overthrow. It is more 
sorrowful, when we think its hurt was received from him to whom its 
welfare was intrusted ; that its injury was the consequence of an over- 
anxiety to please and to obey. It may be well doubted whether, when 
man was given dominion over the beasts of the field, he was invested 
with an absolute authority over God's creatures, which had no moral 
duties nor obligations attached to it. At all events, it would be difficult 
to find an object more suggestive of pity, or better calculated to excite 
our inward reflections, than a horse suffering under partial paralysis. 

Paralysis is generally past all cure ; occasionally, however, it admits 
of relief. It is an eccentric disorder, and it is difficult to saj'^, positively, 
what medicine will be of use. The horse, however, during paralysis, 
should enjoy absolute rest. In its disabled state, a little walk is as 
great an exertion as once was a breathing gallop ; and it M'as over- 
exercise which induced the disorder. The animal should receive only 
strengthening physic and the most nourishing of food. The following 
ball should be administered, night and morning : — 

Strychnia, half a grain, gradually, or in six weeks to be worked up 
to a grain and a half ; iodide of iron, one grain ; quassia powder and 
treacle, a sufficiency : to be given night and morning. 

The grooming should be persevered with, the animal being carefully 



38 GUTTA SERENA. 

dressed twice each day, and the process ending by brushing the quarters 
thoroughly with a new birch broom. The bed should be ample; the 
box should be padded and a warm cloth always kept over the loins. A 
piece of wet flannel, covered with a rug, placed over the lumbar region, 
has on occasions induced a return of warmth. The bowels should be 
regulated, if possible, with mashes and green meat; but, when costive- 
ness exists, a pint of oil is to be preferred to even three drachms of aloes. 
The one exhausts, the other nurtures as well as relaxes the body. 

The hope of amendment must, however, be indulged with caution. 
The disease is of chronic growth, and therefore will be of long duration. 
At all events, it is not one horse in four which recovers from an attack 
of partial paralysis; and not one in twenty that is afterward fit for its 
former uses. 

GUTTA SERENA. 

Gutta serena is fixed dilatation of the pupillary opening, owing to 
paralysis of the optic nerve; the affection is, consequently, accompanied 
by permanent blindness. 

The causes of this malady are blows upon the head, quick driving, 
excessive hemorrhage, stomach staggers, unwholesome stables, poor 
food, exhausting labor, or anything which may decidedly undermine 
the constitution. 

The majority of these causes are inflicted by man, the remainder are 
within his control. Any person has but to reflect how very precious 
eyesight is to mankind. Having settled that point, he has only to con- 
jecture how much more dear it must be to a creature forbid to enjoy the 
pleasures of conversation. To take away sight, is to deprive the animal 
of a faculty with which it is endowed to perfection, in some measure to 
compensate for the absence of reason and the deficiency of speech. A 
horse can see farther than its master. The human eye is, frequently, 
dormant, when the thought is active : the healthy, equine eye never 
rests. The creature sleeps so lightly that very seldom is it caught 
napping. We may imagine, therefore, the gratification bestowed by an 
organ so constantly employed. To blind a horse, is to deprive a 
breathing body of half its life's pleasure. It is more, when we consider 
the natural disposition of the quadruped : it is to deprive timidity of its 
watchfulness, fear of its protection. It is even yet more, when we think 
upon the habits of the horse — its spirits, its pleasure, its joy — all are 
expressed by means of a gallop. But what speed can the horse indulge 
in, when cruelty has taken away the power to guide with rapidity ? To 
destroy the horse's sight, is to condemn a creature to live on, but to 
take from life the gayety of existence. 



GUTTA SERENA. 



39 



The eye recently afflicted with gutta serena, or rather the eyes, (for 
this deprivation commonly aifects both orbs,) is, to the uninformed 
inspection, perfect. The internal structures are in their proper places, 
and the pupil is beautifully dilated. A 
very little instruction, however, enables the 
spectator to distinguish between fixedness 
and dilatation. A trifle more tuition will 
point out that the pupil is not so dark as 
in the organ of the healthy animal : that it 
has an opaque milky cast, accompanied very 
frequently with a bright light-green shining 
through it, as though a piece of tinsel were 
within the posterior chamber. After gain- 
ing such information, probably the notion 
before expressed about beauty may be 
changed. Most things are most beautiful as nature formed them, and 
no little expression resides in the ever-changing dimension of the 
pupillary opening. 




AN EYE AFFECTED WITH GUTTA SERENA. 




^^pJVV'^ 



THE MODE IN WHICH A HORSE, WHEN QUITE BUND, PROGRESSES. 



The symptoms of blindness are equally pathetic and characteristic. 
The nostrils are constantly at work and the ears perpetually in motion — 
life is endeavoring, by exercising other senses, to compensate for the one 
lost. Then, the movements are peculiar. A blind man commonly 



40 



GUTTA SERENA. 



shuffles along, endeavoring "to feel" his way. The horny hoof lacks 
the human faculty, but the horse endeavors to surmount objects by step- 
ping high. A blind man turns the sightless face heavenward; the 
animal, likewise, raises its head, as it were, to expose its sightless orbs 
to its Creator. There is another strange peculiarity also, exemplified 
by the blind horse. The sightless quadruped, contrary to the majority 
of its species, generally carries a rough coat in summer and a blooming 
coat in winter. 

Now, a high stepper, a well-carried head, a lively ear, and a blooming 
coat, are great points in a horse, especially about London, and with 
gentlemen of little information. To prevent imposition, always place 
the horse in a fuir light. Should the pupils continue large, have the 
horse put into a dark house. A quarter of an hour afterward, take a 
candle, and by its light regard the eye. If the pupil is still dilated, 
hold the candle near to the eye. The iris will not contract quickly upon 
artificial light, but in five minutes it ought to move. However, suppose 

you imagine it to remain stationary; then, 
placing yourself by the head, have the 
horse led out into sunshine. If it exhibit 
no change to mark the passage from dark- 
ness to daylight you may certainly con- 
clude the optic nerve is paralyzed. 

There are other tests, but these are not 
satisfactory ; such as covering the eye with 
the hand or a hat. The hand is semi- 
transparent, and so can only induce par- 
tial darkness ; the hat does not fit the 
inequalities of the horse's countenance, 
therefore it is useless. Of the same nature 
is aiming pretended blows at, or moving 
the hand before, the suspected eye. The 
other senses, by constant exercise, become 
so very acute during loss of sight, that 
winking is no proof of vision : the lid may 
move, and, nevertheless, the horse be stone 
blind. 

Nothing can be done for paralysis of 
the optic nerve. The injury once es- 
tablished, its effects are lasting. Butchers 
and other people, who foolishly pride 
themselves upon their fast trotting steeds, and whose natures are not 
unpleasantly susceptible, often induce the afifection. It lessens the value 




THE BASE OP THE BRAIK. 

a. The point of junction between the 
right and left optic nerves. 

6 6. The healthy optic nerve, of a white 
color, originating on the left side and pro- 
ceeding to the left eye. 

c c. The paralyzed or unhealthy optic 
nerve, diminished in size and darker in 
color. It ran to the right eye ; but its 
diseased condition can be clearly traced to 
originate from the left side of the brain. 



GUTTA SERENA. 



41 



of the horse, dooms it to a lower class of proprietors, and takes from 
the creature's life much of the pleasure which otherwise might lighten 
the animal's existence. 

After death, an anatomical peculiarity is observed. The optic nerves, 
subsequent to leaving the brain, unite and exchange fibers. Neither 
nerve pursues an absolute course; yet, consequent on decease, if the 
right eye were blind from gutta serena, the left nerve, or the nerve 
originating from the left side of the brain, alone is affected : the disease 
seems confined to that part. The opposite nerve is perfectly white and 
healthy; but the one affected with paralysis is of a yellowish color, 
softer nature, and sensibly diminished in bulk. So, if blindness afflict 
both eyes, both optic nerves are then of diminished size and of a yel- 
lowish hue. 



CHAPTER II. 



THE EYES THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



The following engraving illustrates some of the accidents which 
attend upon injured sight in the horse. The eyes are probably more 
important to the safety and pleasure of the master than any other por- 
tion of the quadruped's frame. Let the smallest impediment exist, and 




SOME OF THE RESULTS OP IMPERFECT VISION. 



there is no telling in what way it may operate. Certain horses are most 
affected by near objects; others exhibit alarm only when bodies are 
approaching them; another class of creatures will look upon most for- 
ward sights with indifference, but will invariably be horror-struck when- 
ever the view is extensive ; while a fourth group will shy violently with- 
out mortal vision being able to recognize any cause for terror. In every 
case, the dread excited overmasters all other feelings. The presence of 
extreme fear releases the horse from the dominion of its proprietor; its 
movements are sudden, jerking, and eccentric; the animal has lost all 
self-control, and there is no saying in what direction it may move or 
what it may attempt to do. It is regardless of its own life, therefore 
(42) 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 43 

it is careless about the welfare of others, and he is very fortunate who 
possesses such a servant and escapes without accident. 

There is no cure foi; a disposition depending upon a change of struc- 
ture ; but there may be a preventive. Would all horse-owners preserve 
their tempers and forbear from slashing a horse over the head, they 
would be vast gainers in a pecuniary sense, and would certainly escape 
very many of those ills now commonly attendant upon equestrian exer- 
cises. 

Whoever has a shying horse had better discard the ci-eature from all 
private uses. Send the animal to some work in which the habit will be 
accompanied with less danger, or never allow the quadruped to quit the 
stable without having the sight securely blinded. Such things are 
necessary; but the. feeling man, when he considers how much the exer- 
cise of the senses sweeten mere animal existence, will sigh over the order 
which compels him to deprive a horse of that which the common sense 
of the English has denominated "precious sight." 

Simple ophthalmia is inflammation of the fine membrane which covers 
the horse's eye ; it reaches no deeper, it does not affect the internal 
structures of the organ, and it is not so much to be dreaded in its 
immediate as in its after consequences. It is caused by accident and 
by the violence of man. 

As the reader has walked the streets, he surely must have seen men 
indulge their temper by cutting a horse over the head with the whip. 
The animal capers about and shakes the ears, endeavoring to avoid the 
chastisement; the man becomes more enraged; the reins are pulled 
tight, while the master stands up in the gig, and for minutes continues 
chastising a creature that is bound to the shafts and comparatively at 
his mercy. Were the horse, thus tortured, to run away, the person 
who abused his authority would have provoked a severe retribution; 
but the animal has no such intention. The fault may be far more 
imaginary than real. The timidity of the horse prevents it from will- 
fully inviting the dreaded lash; possibly the offense resides more with 
the individual invested with trust over life than with the creature that 
patiently submits to most unworthy control. At all events, the thong 
curls about the face ; now it cuts the lips, in which the sense of touch 
resides; the pain is maddening, the horse capers and shakes its head, 
striving to avoid a repetition of the torture. The next slash, however, 
turns sharply round the blinkers and lights upon the eye ; the horse is 
held tight, the man feels happy, he has discovered a tender place ; the 
whip is plied again and again, always falling true. It hits the mark. 
When the animal reaches home, the lid of one eye is closed, and many 
tears have wetted the cheek, while scars remain after the immediate 



44 SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 

consequences have passed; the vision is interfered with, and timidity 
becomes an inveterate shyer. 

Also, from the manner in which the rack is placed, a hay-seed fre- 
quently falls into the eye. The hay is always kept in the loft above the 
stables, and a narrow trap-door opens into the rack. This is very con- 
venient for the groom; how could any architect be so very "maudlin" 
as to design a stable with the slightest consideration for a horse ? At 
every mouthful the head has to be raised and the provender pulled out; 
probably, human ingenuity could not invent a machine more likely to be 
attended with injury. The head uplifted, the eye open to direct the bite, 
the dry grass shaken to pull out the morsel, of course the loose parti- 
cles are dislodged, and what wonder if one of the hay-seeds should fall 
into the open eye ? This body is small, dry, harsh, and sharp ; moved 
about by the motion of the lid it commits fearful ravages upon the tender 
organ to which it has found admittance, and simple ophthalmia is the 
consequence. 

Man is too proud to learn from nature, or he might observe horses 
always depress their heads when in the field. The common parent, with 
care for all her children's comfort, makes the animal stoop to crop the 
herbage; man causes the creature to upraise and outstretch the neck to 
reach its sustenance. However, the horse is not always free from acci- 
dents when it quits the stall. Carters often amuse the weary way by 
striking what they term a "stubborn and foolish horse" over the head 
with the butt end of the whip. This action, though most irritating to 
witness, is generally less important in its results than any of the injuries 
previously remarked upon. The lid shields the eye ; consequently, a 
largely swollen covering and a slightly injured membrane are the conse- 
quences. 

Many brutal drivers have "a happy nack" of kicking at the head of 
a fallen animal to make it rise. This act may extinguish vision or pro- 
voke simple ophthalmia ; but, it is hoped, all such are exceptional cases, 
therefore these are willingly not remarked upon. 

Frequently horses try to while away the long hours of confinement 
by playing with one another; one horse will lean its head over the divi- 
sion to the stalls and for hours together lick its fellow prisoner's neck. 
Sometimes a day's rest begets high spirits, and the animals indulge in a 
more boisterous amusement ; they bite and snap at one another's heads. 
Domestication has, however, disabled the creature to nicely measure dis- 
tances ; standing all day long with the nose close to a glaring white wall 
has probably impaired the vision. One horse projects its teeth too far; 
they simply graze the eye ; but a small flap of membrane is the conse- 
quence. The bite of au enraged horse is fearful ; and were not the 



SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



45 




A READY MODE OP BLINDING A HORSE, AM) 
OF APPLYING A LOTION TO THE EYES IN 
SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



animal gently inclined, more than a minute portion of fine skin would 
testify its intention. Simple ophthalmia, accompanied with a small 
abscess upon the cornea, is the result. 

The treatment of simple ophthalmia is somewhat homely. Put on a 
bridle, or a leather head-stall ; or a halter will answer the purpose ; 
fasten a cord loosely to either side, so 
that it may cross the forehead ; on this 
line suspend a cloth several times dou- 
bled ; but, mind it is large enough to 
cover both eyes, for the visual organs are 
so sympathetic, that when one is in- 
flamed the other is very likely to exhibit 
disease. Keep the cloth continually 
dripping with the following lotion. 

Fill a two-quart saucepan with poppy 
heads, cover these with water; boil, till 
the poppy heads are quite soft ; pour off the 
liquor, strain, filter, and, adding thereto 
one ounce of tincture of arnica, the preparation, when cold, is fit for use. 

On the first morning, an inspection should be gently attempted ; for 
the eye is generally so very tender, and the animal so resistful, that no 
examination at that time is generally satisfactory. On the following 
day, however, the lotion will have reduced the swelling, mitigated the 
agony, and have enabled the horse to be more obedient ; then make 
another and a thorough examination. The skin upon the eye will be 
white and opaque, the lining of the lid inflamed, while numerous tears 
will pour down the cheek according to the severity of the injury. Re- 
move any substance found underneath the 
eyelid. If the hay-seed or sharp particle 
shaken from the provender stick firmly into 
the outer covering of the eye, grasp it tightly 
with a pair of forceps, and endeavor to pull 
it out. Should it be fixed too deeply for any 
ordinary force to move it, do not exert all your 
power, but take a sharp-pointed knife, which 
is better than a lancet, because more under 
command, and placing its tip below the ob- 
stacle, with a motion, of the wrist oblige it 
to quit its situation or to come forth between the ends of the forceps. 

Should a flap of the cornea be left by a bite, probably pus will be 
secreted beneath it; the place must be watched till the local inflamma- 
tion has subsided, and a spot of yellow, opaque matter can be detected 




AN EYE RECENTLY AFFECTED \TITH 
SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 



46 SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

under the transparent membrane. With a slight incision the pus must 
be released and the eye bathed with a lotion composed of water and 
chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce. 

Other cases will rather be known by the variety of marks left behind 
than by any difference in their necessary treatment. A lotion is gen- 
erally everything required; however, should the inflammation become 
excessive, it may be necessary to open the eye-vein or the vessel which, 
journeying toward its larger trunk, runs directly beneath and from the 
eye. When this prominent and visible vein is pierced, it frequently, 
although distended, will not bleed. Then place some favorite food upon 
the ground, — the bending of the head and the movement of the jaw will 
cause the current to flow forth freely. 

It is among the most beautiful attributes of the horse, that though so 
very timid, it never suspects nor can it understand actual injury. Thus, 
the flowing of its own blood does not affect it; it is otherwise with other 
animals not more intelligent. If a dog or cat be hurt, no delicacy can 
tempt the creature to feed. The horse, when in battle deprived of its 
limb, is so accustomed to restraint and so unsuspicious of harm, that it 
has been found, after the strife was ended, maimed, and yet cropping the 
herbage about it. The generous beast, when domesticated, retains its 
gentle disposition, and soon forgets to recognize danger; it becomes 
attached to its superior, and though its treatment be coarse and its 
usage brutal, it can pardon all. 

The consequences of simple ophthalmia are little, white, opaque spots 
upon the membrane. Streaks of the same sort are occasionally left upon 
the organ by the abuse of the whip ; the amount 
of blemish, of course, will be decided by the 
original injury. Never purchase an animal thus 
disfigured ; better buy a blind horse. The opaque 
places prevent many rays of light from reaching 
the optic nerve; the sight is irreparably im- 
paired; the horse sees imperfectly; it may be- 
hold the head of a man, while the opaque scar 
HORSE'S EYE INJURED BY THE coucBals thc body. Timidity takes alarm at the 
apparently spectral object. It has no reason to 
explain, and it wants intelligence to understand. The poor abused quad- 
ruvied becomes a dangerous shyer. 

SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 
Before we touch upon the subject which forms the heading to this 
article, we wish to establish one proposition, because it will smooth the 
way to an understanding between author and reader. 




SPECIFIC r II T II A L M I A. 



47 



Man cannot make a property of life ; he has no power over its con- 
tinuance; it may cease to-morrow without his permission and against 
his wishes ; it is removed from and independent of his control. Man 
can have nothing like a property in that which is altogether above his 
sway. He then, obviously, has no right to enslave any living creature, 
and take no care of the existence which he has deprived of liberty to 
provide for itself. When he captures a wild animal and retains it in 
captivity, he entails upon himself the duty of providing for its wants, 
and becomes answerable for its welfare. He violently usurps nature's 
province — obviously, he adopts nature's obligations ; if he rebel against 
such a moral contract and persist in viewing dominion as absolute 
authority, as something which invests him with power to feed or starve 
at his pleasure, house or turn into the air according to his will, nature 
opposes such arrogance, and, releasing the life by death, takes the op- 
pressed creature from the tyranny of the oppressor. 

Under some such compact the horse is given to man. The implied, 
not written obligation, may not be acknowledged or understood; but, 
nevertheless, it exists, and the terms of the bond are rigidly exacted. 
Let us regard this matter in relation to specific ophthalmia. A gentle- 
man possesses five horses ; he builds a stable twenty feet long, twelve 
feet wide, and nine feet high ; into this place he crams the five huge 
lives. We will suppose the place to be good of its kind, to be paved 
with Dutch clinkers and to be perfectly drained ; still each horse stands 
in a stall four feet wide ; in this it has to remain all night and the major 
portion of the day. In this space it has to relieve its body; the liquid, 
to be sure, may run off by the drain, but it has to fall upon straw, which 
imbibes some, and to flow over bricks, which 
absorb more ; the solid excrement is during the 
day removed by the groom as it falls, but it re- 
mains in an open basket to taint the air of the 
place. We will suppose the horses and their at- 
tendants, occasionally, are the sole inhabitants, 
and the building contains none of those things, 
living and otherwise, which ladies are pleased 
to order should "be carried into the stable." 

Will the sane reader assert that the space is 
large enough for its purposes ? The stable never 
can be sufficiently ventilated : it will smell of 
impurity — of hay, straw, oats, ammonia, and of 
various other things. The air feels hot. Can 
it be wondered at? Ten large lungs have been 
breathing it for weeks and years, during twenty out of every twenty 




THE SPECIES OF ETE 'wnirn I-^ 

GEXERAI.lv supposed 1 ) HE 
MOST LIABLE TO OPHTHALMIA. 



48 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



four houi's. Five huge creatures have been cabined there, living by day, 
sleeping by night, feeding and performing all the other offices of nature. 
Is it astonishing that the air feels and smells close ? Ought we not 
rather to wonder that animal life can exist in such an atmosphere ? The 
chief contamination is ammonia; ammonia will not support vitality. 
The reader has inhaled smelling salts ; those are purified carbonate of 
ammonia ; have these not made the eyes water ? The ammonia of the 
stable affects the eye of the horse ; it also undermines the constitution ; 
but, by constantly entering upon the lungs and stimulating the eyes, it 
causes the constitutional disease to first affect the visual organs ; in 
short, specific ophthalmia is generated. 

Now, to prove the case here stated. In the south of Ireland, where 
poverty prevails, humanity is obliged to shelter itself in strange places, 
and any hole is there esteemed good lodging for a horse. In that part 
of the kingdom ophthalmia affects the majority of animals; it not only 
preys on horses, but it seizes upon mankind ; for the author, a few years 
ago, was much struck by the quantity of blind beggars to be encountered 
in the streets of Cork. Here we have the conclusion of the argument ; 
its moral exemplified and enforced. If animals are foully housed and 
poorly kept, they generate disorders, which at length extend to the 
human race ; therefore he who contends for a better treatment of the 
horse, also indirectly pleads for the immunity of mankind from certain 
diseases. Man cannot hold life as a property, or abuse life without his 
ill deeds by the ordinances of nature recoiling on himself. 

Specific ophthalmia is a constitutional disease affecting the eyes ; it 
has been submitted to all kinds of rude treatment; no cruelty but has 
been experimented with ; no barbarity but has been resorted to. It has 
been traced to various sources ; its origin has been frequently detected ; 
but the real cause of the disease, to this day, has not been recognized. 
The veterinary surgeon is often sent for to just look at a horse which 

"has got a hay-seed in its eye." This 
mistake is very common, as ophthalmia gen- 
erally breaks forth during the long night 
hours, while the stable is made secure and 
the confined air is foulest. The groom sees 
an animal with a pendant, swollen lid, and 
with a cheek bedewed by copious tears ; he 
can imagine only an accident; but the medi- 
cal examiner must obey the summons with 
an unprejudiced mind, because simple oph- 
thalmia is a mere misfortune, specific ophthalmia is a constitutional 
disorder. 




THE FIRST APPEARANCE OF SPECIFIC 
OPHTHALMIA. 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



49 



The veterinary surgeon, firstly, in the groom's convictions, makes a 
grievous mistake. He goes up to the horse on the opposite side to 
the affection ; being there, he takes the pulse, remarks the breathing, 
observes the coat, feels the feet, examines the mouth, and looks at the 
nasal membrane. If simple ophthalmia be present, some of these may 
be altered from long-endured pain ; but if specific ophthalmia exist, 
the general disturbance denotes a constitutional disorder. The pulse is 
hard, the breathing sharp, the coat staring, the feet cold, the mouth 
clammy, and the nasal membrane inflamed or leaden-colored. 

The horse is next ordered round to the stable window, with the dis- 
eased eye toward the light. A pretense 
is then made of forcing the lid open; if 
simple ophthalmia be present, the resist- 
ance is energetic, but not violent. Should 
specific ophthalmia be the affection, the 
horse struggles against the intimation with 
the wildness of timidity, striving to escape 
a terrible torture. The animal is, there- 
upon, brought into some shady corner ; its 
fears are allayed, and it permits the lid to 
be raised with little difficulty. Should the eye have been injured by 
an accident, the most prominent part of the ball is likely to be hurt. 
The internal structures are unaffected ; the pupil generally is larger 
than usual, and the iris is unchanged. The haw may be or may not 
be projected ; but the eolor, form, and aspect of the iris is unaltered. 
During the commencement of specific ophthalmia, the center of the 
cornea may be transparent, but the circumference of the ball is violently 
inflamed; the reason being that a constitutional disorder always first 
attacks the more vascular structures, and, therefore, commences in the 




RAISING THE UPPER LIB OP AN EYE AF- 
FECTED WITH SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 





DIAGRAM OF THE ETE IX SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 
THE DARK LINE INDICATES THE EXTENT TO 
WHICH HAW MAY PROTRUDE. 



DIAGRAM OP THE HORSE'S EYE WHEN SUF- 
FERING FROM SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



loose conjunctiva, covering the white of the globe. In specific ophthal- 
mia, thq, color of the eye has changed to a lighter hue, and the pupillary 
opening is firmly closed, to prevent the entrance of the dreaded light. 

4 



50 SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

Weakness increases as specific ophthalmia progresses. The attack, 
however, is seldom stationary ; the eye first involved may suddenly become 
clear and healthy, and the opposite organ may exhibit the ravage of the 
disease ; thus, the afi"ection keeps rapidly moving about ; when it sud- 
denly quits both eyes, the inflammation commonly fixes upon some dis- 
tant part of the body, as the lungs or feet. No one can predicate how 
short will be its stay or how long the attack may last ; it has disap- 
peared in a week, it has continued two months. It seldom reaches its 
climax during the first assault. It will occur again and again ; generally 
it ends in the destruction of one or both eyes ; but never, so far as the 
author's knowledge extends, causes gutta serena. Like scrofulous affec- 
tions in the human being, which it greatly resembles, it generally is the 
inheritance of youth ; after maturity or after the eighth year has been 
attained, it is rarely witnessed. 

When this terrible affliction visits a stable, let the proprietor firmly 
oppose all active measures. A shed ought to be procured, cool or shady, 
and screened on every side, excepting on the north. Every hole, how- 
ever minute, should be stopped, because light shines through a small 
opening with a force proportioned to its diminutiveness. The stars and 
candles in the once popular London Diorama were only small holes cut 
in the canvas. 

The eye-vein is then to be opened, and the lid, if much enlarged, 
punctured in several places ; when the bleeding has ceased, a cloth, 
saturated in cold water, is to be put over both eyes. As to other reme- 
dies, they must be regulated by the condition of the animal. Should it 
be poor, oats and beans, ground and scalded ; cut green meat ; gruel 
made of hay-tea, etc., should be given. No dry fodder must be allowed ; 
all the provender must be so soft that mastication may be dispensed with. 
The movement of the jaw, sending blood to the head, is highly injurious 
during an attack of specific ophthalmia. 

Let the following ball be given twice, daily : — 

Powdered colchicum Two drachms. 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Calomel One scruple. 

Make into a ball with extract of gentian. 

Observe the teeth while this physic is being taken. The author has 
taken twenty-five grains of calomel daily, for a month, with impunity; 
lately, he was slightly salivated by two grains, when not expecting any 
efifect. Mercury, therefore, operates in accordance with the system; it 
is strong or weak as the body is sickly or robust. 

Should the animal be fat, do not therefore conclude that it is strong ; 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 51 

obesity is always accompanied with debility. But if the horse be a 
hunter or a racer, in training condition, still give the medicine pre- 
scribed, with soft food, not quite so stimulating, and the ball twice daily. 
However, as soon as the medicine begins to take effect, which it will do 
soonest upon the weakly, change it for : — 

Liquor arsenicalis Three ounces. 

Muriated tincture of iron Five ounces. 

Mix, and give half an ounce in a tumbler of water twice daily. 

Do not bother about the bowels ; endeavor to regulate them by mashes 
and with green meat; if they should not respond, do not resort to more 
active measures. Should the pulse be increased, a scruple of tincture 
of aconite root may be administered every hour, in a wineglass of water; 
should the pain appear to be excessive, the like amount of extract of 
belladonna may be rubbed down in a similar quantity of water, aud be 
given at the periods already stated ; only always be content with doing 
one thing at a time. Thus reduce the pulse, for, with the lowering of 
the vascular action, the agony may become less intense; however, so 
long as the beats of the artery are not more in a minute than sixty-five, 
and not very thin or hard, the aconite should be withheld, for during an 
acutely painful disorder the heart must be in some degree excited. 

The grand measure, however, remains to be told. Remove every horse 
from the stable in which the attack occurred; then elevate the roof, 
widen the gangway, and enlarge the stalls; improve the ventilation, 
overlook the drains, lay down new pavement — in fact, reconstruct the 
edifice. It is felt that, in giving these directions, a proposal is offered 
to demolish a building. The author is fully alive to the expense of such 
a transaction; but one valuable horse will pay for a great deal of bricks 
and mortar. Experience has decided that the most humane way is, in 
the long run, the cheapest method of proceeding. Ophthalmia is a 
teasing and a vexatious disorder. If the owner has no feeling with the 
inhabitants of his homestead, still let him study his own comfort, for it 
is astonishing how very much good stabling adds to the appearance and 
to the happiness of a mansion. 

Specific ophthalmia does not terminate in death ; it usually leaves the 
victim blind in one or both eyes. In England, however, it is mostly 
satisfied with the destruction of one organ; the strength of the other 
becoming, after its departure, considerably improved. At the same 
time, having caused the lids to swell, it leaves them in a wrinkled or a 
puckered state ; the remaining eye is likewise somewhat sensitive to 
light. To gain in some measure the shadow of the brow, and to escape 
the full glare of day, the eye is retracted; all the muscles are employed 



52 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 




AN EYE DISPLAYING THE RAVAGES 
OF SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 



to gain this end, but tlie power of the levator of the upper lid causes 
the eye to assume somewhat of a three-cornered aspect. 

It is always desirable to recognize the animal which may be or may 
have been liable to so fearful an affection. 
One symptom of having experienced an at- 
tack is discovered on the margin of the trans- 
parent cornea. The inflammation extends from 
,'^ the circumference to the center. The margin 
III' I of the transparent ball is generally the last 
'' ' place it quits; here it frequently leaves an 
irregular line of opacity altogether different 
to and distinct from the evenly-clouded indica- 
tion of the cornea's junction with the sclerotic, 
which last is nattiral development. 
Nevertheless, the internal structure best display the ravages of specific 
ophthalmia ; it is upon these the terrible scourge exhausts its strength. 
The eye becomes cloudy; loses its liquid appearance; the black bodies 
attached to the edges of the pupillary opening either fall or seem about 
to leave their natural situation. The pupil becomes turbid, then white; 
the iris grows light in color, and at last remains stationary, having pre- 
viously been morbidly active. The whiteness of the pupil grows more 
and more confirmed, and every part grows opaque; by this circumstance, 
the total cataract, arising from specific oph- 
thalmia, is frequently to be challenged. The 
lens, moreover, is often driven, by the force of 
the disease, from its position; it lodges against 
the inner surface of the globe. Very common 
is a torn or ragged state of the pupil witnessed, 
as was stated, during the intensity of the at- 
tack, for the iris contracts to exclude the light ; 
remaining thus for any period, it becomes at- 
tached to the capsule of the lens; when the 
disease mitigates, it often rends its own structure by its efforts to expand. 
Should those efforts prove unavailing, the pupillary opening, as some- 
times happens, is lost forever. 

In the previous description of disorder, no mention has been made of 
the cartilago nictitans, or haw, or third eyelid, as it has been called. 
This tliin body is very active, and resides at the inner corner of the eye; 
of course, in a disease under which the eye is pained by light, the haw 
is protruded to the utmost. In ophthalmia, however, it is covered by 
an inflamed membrane, and though in health its movements are so 
rapid that it may easily escape notice, yet in this disease it lies before 




TEEMINATION TO SPECIFIC OPH- 
THALMIA. 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 53 

the eye, red and swollen ; this substance it was once common for farriers 
to excise, under a foolish notion of removing the cause of the disorder. 

The use of the cartilago nictitans in the healthy eye will now be 
explained. Let the reader inspect any of the illustrations to this article ; 
he will find the outer corner represented as being much higher than the 
inner corner of the eye, where the active little body resides. Under the 
upper lid, near to the outer corner, is situated the lachrymal gland, which 
secretes the water or tears of the eye. 

Suppose any substance "gets into the eye;" being between two layers 
of conjunctiva, it creates much anguish, it provokes constant motion 
of the lid, which in its turn causes the lachrymal gland to pour forth its 
secretion. Liquid flowing over a smooth globe of course gravitates ; 
the substance "in the eye" is thus partly washed and partly pushed 
toward the inner corner. 

Now, the base of the cartilago nictitans rests upon the fat at the back 
of the eye. Pain causes the globe to be retracted by spasmodic jerks; 
adipose matter cannot be compressed, and it is therefore driven forward 
every time the muscles act. The fat carries with it the cartilago nictitans, 
and the edge of the body being very fine and lying close to the globe, 
shovels up any foreign substance that may be within its reach, to place 
it upon the rounded development at the inner corner of the eye. Still 
may the reader inquire, if the cartilago nictitans is covered with con- 
junctival membrane, and the inner corner of the eye is enveloped in the 
same, does not the foreign substance occasion pain to these as it did to 
the globe of the eye ? No ; it was just hinted that conjunctiva is not 
sensitive except two layers of the membrane are together, as the ball 
and the inner surface of the eyelid. The haw, therefore, has no sensa- 
tion upon its external surface, neither has the inner corner of the eye, 
whence all foreign bodies are quickly washed by the overflow of tears. 

Farriei's, however, are not an extinct race ; many of the fraternity 
still exist, still practice, and are, it is to be feared, very little improved. 
Should one of these gentlemen offer to cure specific ophthalmia, it is 
hoped the owner, after the foregoing explanation, will not allow the 
"haw" to be excised. 

Let every man treat the animals over which he is given authority with 
kindness, as temporary visitors with himself upon earth, and fellow- 
inhabitants of a striving world. Let him look around him ; behold the 
owner of a coveted and highly-prized racer to-day, in a week reduced to 
the possessor of a blind and wretched jade; then ask himself what kind 
of property that is to boast of, which may be deteriorated or taken from 
hira without his sanction ? Having answered that question, let him 
inquire whether it is better to propitiate the higher being by showing 




54 CATARACT. 

tenderness toward his creatures, or to defy the power which can in an 
instant snatch away his possessions. 

CATARACT. 

Cataract is a white spot within the pupillary opening. The spot may 
he indistinct or conspicuous, — soft, undefined or determined ; it may be 

as small as the point of a needle, or so big 
as to fill the entire space : in short, any in- 
dication of whiteness or opacity upon the 
pupil is regarded as a cataract. 

Cataracts are designated according to the 
parts on which they reside. The lens of the 
eye is contained within a capsule, as an egg 
is within its shell. Any whiteness upon this 
PARTIAL CATARACTS, OR SMALL WHITE capsulc Is tcrmcd a capsulap cataract. The 

SPECK WITHIN THE PUPIL OF THE EVE. ^ . , . i i . 

lens floats in a nquor which surrounds it, as 
the white does the yolk of an egg. Any turbidness in this fluid is termed 
a milky cataract; any speck upon the lens is a lenticular cataract ; and 
any little glistening appearance behind the capsule is spoken of as a 
spurious cataract. 

Moreover, there are the osseous, the cartilaginous, and the opaque 
cataracts; but those distinctions rather concern the anatomist than the 
pathologist, as they may be guessed at, yet are not to be distinguished 
with certainty one from another, during life. 

That which more concerns the reader is, to learn the manner, if possi- 
ble, of preventing cataract from disfiguring his horse's eyes. Then will 
the gentleman be kind enough to hold a sheet of white paper close to his 
nose, so that the eyes may see nothing else, for a single half hour. Let 
us suppose the trial has been made. With many people the head has 
become dizzy and the sight indistinct. In some persons singing noises 
are heard and a sensation of sickness has been created. Let the author 
strive to explain this fact. Travelers, passing over the Alps, wear green 
veils, to prevent the strain or excitement which looking upon a mass 
of white snow occasions the visual organs. Any excitement is preju- 
dicial to the eye. Workers at trades dealing in minute objects, often go 
blind, and the use of the miscroscope has frequently to be discontinued. 
But to look continuously upon a white mass is the most harmful of all 
other causes. 

This fact must be considered as established. And what does the 
horse proprietor have done to his stable ? He orders the interior to be 
whitewashed. It looks so clean, he delights to see it ; but do the 
horses — does nature equally enjoy to look upon those walls of " spot- 






CATARACT. 55 

less purity ?" Before those walls, with its head tied to the manger, 
stands the animal through the hours of the day. Close to its nose 
shines the painful whiteness which the master so enjoys. Is it, then, sur- 
prising (seeing how nature for its own wise purposes has connected all 
life) that the equine eye, doomed to perpetual excitement, sometimes 
shows disease ? 

A horse with imperfect vision is a dangerous animal. A small speck 
upon the lens confuses" the sight as much as a comparatively large mark 
upon the cornea. To render this clear, let the reader hold a pen close to 
the eye ; it prevents more vision than yonder huge post obstructs. So 
impediments are important, as they near the optic nerve. The lens 
is nearer than the cornea, and therefore any opacity upon the first 
structure is more to be dreaded. 

However, let it be imagined a horse, with an opacity upon the pupil, 
and the sight confused by staring at a white flat mass spread out before 
it, is led forth for its master's use. By the aid of the groom and its own 
recollections, it manages to tread the gangway, and even to reach the 
well-known house door in safety. The owner, an aged gentleman, of the 
highest respectability, comes forth in riding costume. He mounts, and 
throwing the reins upon the neck of the animal, sets his nag into walking 
motion, while he, erect and stately, looks about him and proceeds to pull 
on his gloves. The horse, however, has not gone many steps before the 
cataract and the confused vision, acting conjointly, produce alarm. The 
steed shies and the gentleman loses his seat, being very nearly off. The 
passengers laugh, the proprietor suffers in his temper, but the whip is 
used, and the equestrian is soon out of sight. 

The man and horse proceed some distance ; the gentleman becomes 
much more calm, and the horse recovers sufficient composure to try and 
look around it. The pace now is rather brisk, when the horse thinks, or 
its disabled vision causes it to imagine, it sees some frightful object in the 
distance. The timid animal suddenly wheels round. The rider is not 
prepared for the eccentric motion : he is shot out of the saddle. He falls 
upon his head; he is picked up and carried home; but afterward he 
avoids the saddle. 

Never buy the horse with imperfect vision ; never have the interior of 
your stable whitewashed. Then what color is to be employed ? Probably 
blue would absorb too many of the rays of light ; at all events, it seems 
preferable to copy nature. Green is the livery of the fields. In these 
the eyes take no injury, although the horse's head be bent toward the 
grass for the greater number of the hours. Consequently, the writer rec- 
ommends that green wash, which is cheap enough, should be employed, 
instead of the obnoxious white, for the interior of stables. 



56 



CATARACT. 




COMPLETE CATARACT. 



For complete cataract nothing can be done. In man, operation or 
couching may be performed with success ; but the horse can retract the 

eye and protrude the cartilago nictitans. 
Thereby difficulties are created ; but these 
may be overcome. However, when an open- 
ing through the cornea is perfected, the 
spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the 
eye, acting upon the fibrous covering of 
the globe, is apt to drive forth the liquid 
contents of the organ in a jet : this is ir- 
reparable, of course. When so fearful a 
catastrophe does not ensue, still the capsule 
of the lens is always difficult to divide, and the lens itself cannot easily 
be broken down. The lens, therefore, must be abstracted ; but that 
necessitates a large incision, which the previously named probability 
forbids. Displacement is the only resort left ; but the lens, when forced 
from its situation into the posterior or dark cavity, is, by the contraction 
of the muscles, forced up again. The uncertainty of the result, even 
when the operation is successfully performed, is peculiarly disheartening. 
Half lose their eyes in consequence of the attempt ; half the remainder 
are in no way benefited ; to the rest, as these cannot wear spectacles to 
supply the place of the absent lens, of course the pain endured becomes 
useless torture. 

Where pai'tial cataract is feared but cannot be detected, then arti- 
ficially dilate the pupil. Rub down two drachms 
of the extract of belladonna in one ounce of water. 
Have this applied, with friction, to the exterior of 
the lids and about the eye ; mind none gets into 
the eye. The belladonna, acted upon by the secre- 
tions, turns to grit; inflammation is the conse- 
quence, and the clearness of the cornea is im- 
paired. When the belladonna is properly used, 
it dilates the iris and exposes the margin of the 
lens, thus enabling the practitioner to inspect the 
eye in a full light. 

To tell a spurious cataract, which defect is 
never permanent, first observe the spot. Note 
if it present any metallic appearance, and try 
whether, as the horse's head is moved, it alters in shape, catching irregular 
lights. Then inspect the exterior of the eye ; see if it retain any signs 
of recent injury. Subsequently endeavor, so far as may be possible, 




DIAGRAM ILLUSTRATING THE 
ACTION OF BELLADONNA. 

The inner space represents 
the natural pupil, on which 
no cataract is to be observed. 
The second space represents 
the pupillary opening as it 
may be enlarged by the appli- 
cation of belladonna, whereon 
two partial cataracts are to be 
remarked. The other space 
merely represents the dilated 
pupil. 



FUNGOID GROWTHS. 



57 




to ascertain the exact position occupied by the defect: upon all this 
evidence put together, make up your opinion. 

To distinguish between the different kinds of cataract, apply the bella- 
donna. Next place the horse near a window or 
under a door. Should the sun shine, have the 
animal led into the full glare of day. Look 
steadily into the eye from different points of 
view. Then have the horse's head moved about, 
all the time keeping your sight fixed upon the 
part you are desirous of inspecting. 

Should one spot continue in every position, 
of one bulk, and of one aspect, never becoming 
very narrow and always occupying one place 
throughout the examination, — it is a lenticular 
cataract that is beheld. 

If the whiteness changes appearances, in some 
positions seeming very thin or perceptibly less 
bulky, it is assuredly a capsular cataract which 
is inspected. 

Most cataracts may either be partial or com- 
plete ; but a spurious cataract is always partial, 
never permanent, and invariably caused by vio- 
lence. 

For spurious cataract, treat the injury to the exterior of the eye. 
For other cataracts, do nothing: there is no known medicine of any 
beneficial effect. However, it is well to add, the author's and the gen- 
eral opinion favors the absorption of cataract ; or that these opacities 
may appear and after a time go away without the aid of medicine. 
Nevertheless, to hasten such a process, have the interior of the stable 
colored. However much in favor a clean white wall may be with grooms 
or with the lower order, exercise an informed judgment ; have the wall 
shaded of the tint most pleasant to the inhabitants' sight, and the 
prospect of recovery will by so trivial an outlay be materially facilitated. 



DIAGRAM ILLUSTRATING THE DIF- 
FERENT KINDS OF CATARACT. 

1. A capsular cataract or an 
opacity, situated on the envel- 
ope of the lens. 

2. A lenticular cataract or an 
opacity, within the substance of 
the lena. 

3. A spurious cataract, or a 
particle of lymph adhering to 
the inner surface of the lenti- 
cular capsule. 



FUNGOID TUMORS WITHIN THE SUBSTANCE OF THE EYE. 

These, fortunately, are rare affections. We know of no immediate 
cause for their production. No man can prophesy their appearance. 
The horse, to human judgment, may enjoy the top of health ; may be in 
flesh and full of spirit — altogether blooming. Nevertheless, the action 
of the legs may perceptibly grow higher, and the ears become more 
active. The animal will wait to be urged or guided, when the road is 




58 FUNGOID GROWTHS. 

clear. Also, it may run into obstacles, when the rider does not touch 
the rein. Should anything be left in the gangway of the stable, it is 

certain to be upset, by what the groom terms 
"that clumsy horse." Sometimes it will 
stand for hours together neglecting its food, 
with the head held piteously on one side. 
Occasionally, when at grass, it may be found 
separated from its companions, alone and 
dejected, with the head as before, held on 
one side, while the waters of the eye copi- 
ously bedew the cheek. 

FUNOUS H.EMAT0IDE8, OR CANCEROnS '' 

GROWTHS WITHIN THE SUBSTANCE At last thc cycs QXQ cxamincd. The eye- 
op THE EYE. "^ •' 

ball may be clear, but some brilliant yellow 
substance may be discerned shooting from the base of the interior, and 
the horse is declared contaminated by a cancerous disease. 

All is now explained : the sight is lost ; the horse is blind. There 
are three terrible decisions now left to the master. Is the life to be 
shortened? The thought shudders at taking existence, when misery 
pleads for consolation. Is the animal to live on and nurture to maturity 
the seeds of a cancerous disease ? The mind shrinks from subjecting any 
creature to the terrible depression and hopeless agony attendant upon 
such disorders. Is an operation to be performed ? Shall the surgeon 
extirpate the eye ? This last proposal seems the worst of all ; nor does 
inquiry improve the prospect. The cancer does not entirely reside within 
the eye ; it is not limited to that part. The taint is in the constitution, 
and the operation can do no more than retard its effect. The eye re- 
moved, the cancerous growth will soon fill the vacant orbit After two 
or several months of dreadful suspense, the life at last will be exacted, 
and the animal, worn out with suffering, will expire. 

Under such circumstances, the writer recommends death, before the 
full violence of the disease is endured. Should, however, the reader 
think differently, and prefer the extirpation of the eyeball, the operation 
will here be described. First, mind the operator has two knives not 
generally kept by veterinary surgeons : one of small size and slightly 
bent to one side; the other larger, and curved to one side till it has 
nearly reached a semicircle. Mind the operator has everything ready 
before he begin : a sharp scalpel, two straight triangular-pointed needles, 
each armed with strong twine ; one curved needle, similarly provided ; 
sponge, water, injecting tube, bellows, lint, — and all things at hand. It 
is necessary the proprietor should see to this, as some men will commence 
an operation upon a mere horse and be obliged to stop in the middle, not 
having brought all the instruments which they may require. 



FUNGOID GROWTHS. 



59 



Cast the horse. Impale both eyelids, each with one of the straight 
needles, and leave the assistant to tie the thread into loops. Through 
these loops the assistant places the fore-finger of each hand, and then 
looks toward his superior. The sign being given, the man pulls the 
eyelid asunder, while the surgeon rapidly grasps the straight knife and 
describes a circle round the globe, thereby sundering the conjunctival 
membrane. The knife is then changed, the small curved blade being 
taken. The assistant again makes traction, and the knife, being passed 
through the divided conjunctiva, is carried round the eyeball, close to the 
bone ; the levator and depressor muscles are detached by this movement. 
The assistant again relaxes his hold ; the operator relinquishing the 
knife, selects the curved needle. 
With this the cornea is transfixed. 
The thread is drawn through and is 
then looped. Into this loop the 
surgeon puts the fore-finger of his 
left hand, and giving the sign once 
more to his assistant, takes hold of 
the large bladed knife. Traction is 
made on all the loops. The curved 
knife is inserted into the orbit, and, 
with a sawing motion, is passed 
round the organ. The posterior 
structures are thereby divided, and 
the eye is drawn forth. 

The operation ought to be over 
in less time than five minutes ; but 
speed depends on previous prepara- 
tion. The assistant, during the operation, should rest his hand upon 
the horse's jaw and face ; sad accidents by that means are prevented ; 
but, above all things, he should be cool, doing just what is sufficient and 
no more. 

Some hemorrhage follows the removal of the orb; to stop it, inject 
cold water into the empty socket; should that have no effect, drive a 
current of air from the bellows upon the divided parts ; if this be of no 
avail, softly plug the cavity with lint, bandage the wound to keep in the 
dressing, and leave the issue to nature. 

Such is the undisguised operation for extirpating the horse's eye. 
The reader is confidently asked, whether a few months of miserable 
existence, with the certainty of a fearful death, are not dearly purchased 
at so great a suffering ? 




EXTIRPATIOJf OF THE EYE. 



60 LACERATED EYELID. 



LACERATED EYELID. 



Horses frequently endeavor to amuse the weary hours by a playful 
game with one another ; if accident results, it is not wholly the fault of 
the guileless animals; they are tied to the mangers; they cannot exert 
their activity ; otherwise their principal enjoyment resides in the free- 
dom of their heels. And looking at a blank mass of monotonous 
white for many hours may have disabled the sight or have confused the 
judgment. 

The groom being absent, advantage is taken of the event to have a 
romp. The animals snap at one another over the divisions to their 
stalls; often the amusement extends, and four or five heads may be be- 
held united in the sport. Generally, however, the game is confined to 
two players; but, either way, no injury is meant; the teeth rattle, but 
they are intended to close upon empty space. However, man has to 
bear the consequences which his errors provoke. That species of con- 
finement to which hoi"ses are subjected renders the judgment uncertain 
and the sight untrue. The animal pretends to snap, but, either from 
one head not being removed quick enough or from the other head being 
protruded too far, the teeth catch the eyelid and divide it through the 
center. The injury is not very serious, for had malice impelled the 
assault, much more than an eyelid would have been grasped between 
the jaws. 

In other cases, the groom has driven nails into the wall of the gang- 
way ; grooms are fond of seeing the stable decora- 
ted with pendant objects of various kinds. So long 
as the nails are occupied, little danger ensues; but 
they are apt to be left vacant, and horses are con- 
stantly passing along the gangway. To leave room 
for the servant obliges the animal, very often, to 
keep close to the wall ; the projecting nail catches 
the lid of the eye, and a long rent, commencing upon 

EYELID TORN BT A NAIL. "" <D ' o i. 

the outer side, usually results. 
Such an injury creates great alarm, but it is less serious than it ap- 
pears to be. Let the wound, from whatever cause it springs, be well 
bathed with a soft sponge and cold water; this should be done till the 
bleeding ceases. Afterward, the wound should be let alone for two or 
three hours, that the edges may become partially sticky ; then let there 
be procured a long piece of strong thread, having a needle at each end; 
the needles should be new, very sharp, and of the stronger sort em- 
ployed by glovers. Let all the punctures be made from within out- 




IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 



61 



ward, to avoid injuring the eyeball, and a separate needle be employed 
for each divided surface. The thread being brought through, cut off the 
needles, and loop, but do not tie the thread. Proceed with another 
suture, and do not tie that; then with another, observing the same 
directions, and thus, till the eyelid has a sufficient number of sutures. 
Then proceed to draw all to an even tightness — none should be abso- 
lutely tight. The parts ought only to be approximated, not tied firmly 
together ; well, all the sutures being of equal size, they are fastened, and 
the operation is concluded. 

But as the wound begins to heal it is apt to itch, and the horse will 
often rub the eye violently to ease the irritation. To prevent this, 
fasten the animal to the pillar-reins of its stall, and let it remain there 
till the wound has healed ; the injury will in a short time close, but the 
sutures should be watched. When the holes begin to enlarge, the thread 
can be snipped. If the punctures be dry, let the divided sutures remain 
till nature shall remove them. If they are moist, and the wound ap- 
pears united, you may try each thread with a pair of forceps; should 
any appear loose, then withdraw it, for after division it can be of no 
use, and may provoke irritation ; however, should it be retained, employ 
no force ; have patience, and it will come forth without man's inter- 
ference. 

Feed liberally, regulate the bowels 
by mashes and green meat ; smear the 
wound with oil of tar to dispel the flies ; 
for should the accident happen during the 
warmer months, these pests biting and 
blowing upon so delicate a part as the eye 
may occasion more harm than our best 
efforts can rectify. When the lid is bitten 
through, the operation is precisely similar ; 
the divided edges are to be brought to- 
gether by sutures. To prevent needless repetition, an engraving of the 
bitten lid, after the operation has been performed, is here presented. 




THE LID, WHEN DIYIDED BY THE TEETH, 
BROUGHT TOGETHER BY MEANS OF SU- 
TURES. 



IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 



The lachrymal duct in the horse is a small canal leading from the eye 
to the nostril ; it commences by two very minute openings near the 
terminations of the upper and lower lids, at the inner corner of the 
eye; it emerges upon the dark skin which lines the commencement of 
the horse's nostril, being on the inner side of the internal membrane. 




62 IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 

Its use is to carry off the superflux of tears ; hence, with human beings, 
who have a like structure, "much weeping at the theaters provokes loud 
blowing of noses." 

The channel being so minute, any substance getting into it soon be- 
comes swollen with the moisture and closes 
the passage. The tears cannot escape, and 
being secreted, flow upon the cheek. The 
perpetual stream pouring over a part not 
designed for such uses, causes the hair to 
fall off, and thus forms gutters, along which 
the fluid continues to run. The flesh at 
length excoriates, and numerous sores are 
established; the lids swell and become raw 
A HORSE'S HEAD, DisPLAYiNo" OB- at thc margins ; the conjunctiva reddens, 
sTRucTioN OF THE LACHRYMAL q^^^ ^hc trauspareucy of the cornea is greatly 

lessened by the spread of inflammation. 
The wretched animal in this condition presents a very sentimental 
appearance to a person ignorant of the facts of the case. The swollen 
lid, because of its weight, is permitted to close over the eye, while the 
tears, flowing fast upon the cheek, with the general dejection, gives the 
creature an aspect of weeping over some heavy affliction. 

Like the late William Percivall, whose works on veterinary subjects 
remain a monument to his memory, the author has encountered but a 
single case of this description ; it was in a matured but not a very 
aged animal. The report was, that a year ago it had been attacked 
by influenza ; the lid then enlarged, and the near cheek had been wet 
ever since. 

Referring to the pages of Percivall's "Hippopathology," the author 
procured a thin, elastic probe, about twelve inches long ; the horse being 
cast, and an assistant holding the upper lid, the probe was introduced at 
the inner corner of the eye, by the lower opening to the duct ; the' en- 
trance was easy enough, but the passage was soon obstructed ; then the 
probe was inserted at the opening of the duct within the nostril. The 
way in this direction was longer, but the end came at last, without any 
good being effected. Next, a wsyringe being charged, the fine point was 
introduced up the nasal termination of the duct, the power of the jet 
effectually removing every impediment ; the water streamed through the 
upper openings, and the horse was sent home cured. 

The writer saw the animal six months subsequent to the operation ; it 
was apparently in excellent health, and obviously in amended condition. 
The owner said the horse soon got well after it reached home; but, 



IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 63 

being pressed to say how great a duration "soon" represented, he re- 
joined "about six weeks, perhaps.''^ 

Three months afterward, however, the horse was once more brought 
with "watery eye," and again operation was successful. The proprie- 
tor then received back and soon sold the creature, which being past the 
age when horses are most valuable, seemed likely to become an expen- 
sive retainer. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE MOUTH — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 



EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE MOUTH. 

Let no man punish a horse for want of obedience ; the sole use of the 
creature and its only delight is to obey. Let no person abuse it for 
having a hard mouth, or for not answering to the rein. Man had the 
formation of the mouth, and its condition can be no fault in the pos- 
sessor ; the horse's pleasure is the gratification of its master. Observe 
the antics of the nag thoroughly trained and perfectly up to the rider's 
point of jockeyship. Does not every fiber seem to quiver with excess of 
happiness ? There is a tacit understanding between man and horse ; the 
pretty arts and graceful prancings of the animal tell how joyful it is 
made by the conviction that it is sharing man's amusement. But let 
the equestrian dismount, and another, above or below the horse's educa- 
tional point, assume the saddle, that understanding no longer exists. 
The harmony is destroyed ; there is no intelligence between horse and 
man. All the playfulness disappears; the entire aspect of the animal 
is changed, and it sinks to a commonplace "ugly brute." 

The majority of drivers are very particular about the horse's mouth ; 
yet they all abuse the animal as though it was their desire to destroy 
that which each professes to admire. Every supposed error is punished 
with the lash, but the whip can convey no idea; the lash does not in- 
struct the animal ; beat a horse all day, and it will only be stupid at sun- 
set. All the horse can comprehend from the smart is a desire that the 
pace should be quickened ; that wish it endeavors to comply with. The 
person who guides the vehicle generally becomes fanatic at such perver- 
sity; he begins "jagging" and "sawing" the reins. The iron is vio- 
lently pulled against the angles of the mouth, or rapidly passes from one 
side to the other. Would the owner or driver take the trouble to instruct 
his dumb servant in his wishes, the poor drudge would rejoice to exhibit 
its accomplishments. But no information is communicated by first 
urging and then checking ; the timidity is increased by the one, the 
angles of the mouth are excoriated by the other. 

Ladies' horses invariably have admirable mouths; ladies generally are 
very poor equestrians, yet they encounter few accidents. Men, who ride 
better, are oftener thrown and hurt. The gentleness of the woman, or 
the sympathy existing between two gentle beings, produces this effect 
(64) 



EXCORIATED ANGLES OP THE MOUTH. 



65 



The horse is never dangerous when not alarmed ; the feminine hand pats 
the neck of the steed; the feminine voice assures the timidity; the 
whip never slashes; the reins are never converted into instruments 
of torture ; the weight is light and the pace is easy. A perfect under- 




TARI0U3 MODES OF FORSnNO THAT WHICH ALL ME\ SPEAK OP VmS ADMraATION, A3 A " GOOD MOUTH." 

standing is soon established between the two, and the rider, notwith- 
standing her weakness, her indifferent jockeyship, and her flapping dress, 
sits the saddle in safety, while the animal increases in value under her care. 

Man certainly does not gain by the contrast ; the male treatment does 
not improve the animal. The horse's memory, like that of most dumb 
creatures, is very tenacious; the quadruped is not made more steady by 
ill usage ; the sore corners of the mouth oblige the animal to be laid up 
"for a time," and the expense of medical treatment increases the sacri- 
fice consequent upon loss of services. 

Trouble attends the circumstance, at which the favorite groom is sure 
to grumble, even if the master does not receive 
" notice." The food must be prepared ; a few oats 
thrown into the manger, and a little hay forked in- 
to the rack will not now suffice ; all the provender 
must be carefully prepared. At first, good thick 
gruel and hay tea must be the only support. In a 
few days, boiled and mashed roots may be intro- 
duced ; these may be followed by cut roots boiled, 
but not mashed, the whole being succeeded by 
scalded hay with bruised and mashed oats. When all is done however, 

5 




EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE 
MOUTH. 



66 PARROT-MOUTH. 

the horse's temper is not improved, and its mouth is decidedly injured. 
Such results will vex the temper of any good groom, and very many it 
will anger to the throwing up of their situations. They "will not get a 
horse into beautiful condition for master only to spoil." 

When the horse is thus injured, ignore all filthy ointments ; such 
things consist of verdigris, carbonate of zinc, horse turpentine, blue, 
green or white vitriol, mixed up with dirty tallow or rank lard. Now, 
to grease a horse's teeth is not much worse than to tallow its lips ; if 
the former prevent it from feeding, the latter is not calculated to improve 
the appetite. 

Discarding all unguents, have the following lotion prepared : — 

Chloride of zinc Two scruples. 

Water Two pints. 

Essence of aniseed A sufficiency. 

Pour some of this into a saucer, and, with anything soft, apply the 

lotion to the sore places ; do not rub or scrub ; do your ministering 

gently ; so the parts are wet, no further good can be accomplished ; use 

this wash after every feeding or watering. In a little while amendment is 

generally perceptible ; where violence has been used, it is impossible to 

foretell the extent of the injury. A superficial slough may be cast off; 

this process is attended with fetor ; that the lotion will correct, and 

thus add to the comfort of the horse. The cure, however, will possibly 

leave the horse of a lessened value ; where the skin 

^^j^i.,..^,^^^^ has been destroyed it is never reproduced ; the 

■*®lfP-'^^^^. ^^"'^^ ^^^^' therefore, probably blemish, and may 

vlfii^^^^^©^ ^^^^ ^ future purchaser to suspect "all sorts of 

\^^l^«ii^^ things." The horse is certainly deteriorated ; with 

^fnlP'IiiiiillJII^^ |.j^g g].jj^ ^]jg natural sensibility of the part is lost. 

PERMAJTENT BLEMISH AND j^ cicatrlx, cousistiug ouly of condensed cellular tis- 

DESTRUCTION OP THE ' " *' 

NICE SENSIBILITY OF gug. uiust form upou thc spot; this structure is very 

THE MOUTH. ' 11/ 

feebly, if at all, nervous, and when compared to the 
smooth and soft covering of the lips, may be said to be without feeling, 
and is very liable to ulceration. 

PARROT-MOUTH. 

This, strictly speaking, is not a disease ; it is a malformation ; the 
upper incisors, from those of the lower jaw not being sufficiently de- 
veloped, meet with no opposing members ; they consequently grow very 
long, and from their form are likened to the bill of a parrot. 

This formation is not unsoundness, but it cannot be a recommendation ; 
the horse can only gathei* up its corn imperfectly ; much falls from the 




L A M P A S. 67 

moutli during mastication. The animal which requires four feeds and a 

half daily to support the condition another maintains upon four feeds, 

must be the more expensive retainer of the two. 

Moreover, it is a virtue in a horse to thoroughly clear 

out the manger ; a healthy animal not only licks out 

corners to catch stray grains, but hunts among the 

straw for any corns that may have fallen. This duty 

the parrot-mouth disables a horse from performing; 

the ffood feeder alone is equal to the work. copied from the au- 

° _ _ ^ thor's work, en- 

Besides, a rider is always pleased, when sauntering titled "the horse's 

•^ '^ '-' MOUTH," PUBLISHED 

down the green lanes during the spring of the year, "^ messrs. fores, 
to see the horse's neck stretched out to catch a twig 
of the shooting hedge ; this can do no harm ; but it is hard alike upon 
horse and man to always have a tight hold of the rein when the fresh 
scent of the budding thorn tempts the mouth to its enjoyment. And 
yet, in the majority of instances, it would be cruelty to yield and 
permit the parrot-mouth to bite ; the under teeth very often rest 
against the palate. No more need be said to caution owners pos- 
sessed of an animal thus afflicted, against a natural indulgence. The 
parrot-jaw is a deformity for the perpetuation of which man is respon- 
sible; dispositions and formations are hereditary. Would the owners 
of stock only exercise some judgment in their selections, this misfortune 
might speedily be eradicated. 

LAMPAS. 

The horse's lot is, indeed, a hard one ; it is not only chastised by the 
master, but it also has to submit to the fancies of the groom. "Lam- 
pas" is an imaginary disease, but it is a 
vast favorite among stable attendants, ^ ^""^fej^y -^^^^mn , 
Whenever an animal is "off its feed," the 

' THE LAMPAS IRON. 

servant looks into the mouth, and to his 

own conviction discovers the "lampas." That affection is supposed to 
consist of inflammation, which enlarges the bars of the palate and forces 
them to the level of or a little below the biting edges of the upper 
incisor teeth. 

Would the groom take the trouble to examine the mouths of other 
young horses which "eat all before them," the "lampas" would be 
ascertained to be a natural development; but the ignorant always act 
upon faith, and never proceed on inquiry. Young horses alone are sup- 
posed to be subject to " lampas ;" young horses have not finished 
teething till the fifth year. Horses are " broken " during colthood ; 
they are always placed in stables and forced to masticate dry, artificial 



68 



L A M P A S, 



food before all their teeth are cut; shedding the primary molars is 
especially painful ; of course, during such a process, the animal en- 
deavors to feed as little as possible. A refusal to eat is the groom's 
strongest proof that lampas is present. But, putting the teeth on one 
side, would it be surprising if a change of food and a total change of 
habit in a young creature were occasionally attended with temporary 
loss of appetite ? Is " lampas" necessary to account for so very prob- 
able a consequence ? The writer has often tried to explain this to stable 
servants ; but the very ignorant are generally the very prejudiced. 
While the author has been talking, the groom has been smiling ; looking 
most provokingly knowing, and every now and then shaking his head, as 
much as to say, "ah, my lad, you can't gammon me I" 

Young horses are taken from the field to the stable, from juicy grass 
to dry fodder, from natural exercise to constrained stagnation. Is it so 
very astonishing if, under such a total change of life, the digestion be- 
comes sometimes deranged before the system is altogether adapted to its 
new situation ? Is it matter for alarm should the appetite occasionally 
fail ? But grooms, like most of their class, regard eating as the only 
proof of health. They have no confidence in abstinence ; they cannot 
comprehend any loss of appetite ; they love to see the " beards wag- 
ging," and reckon the state of body by the amount of provision con- 
sumed. 

The prejudices of ignorance are subjects for pity ; the slothfulness of 

the better educated merits reproba- 
tion. The groom always gets the 
master's sanction before he takes a 
horse to be cruelly tortured for an 
imaginary disease. Into the hands 
of the proprietor has a Higher 
Power intrusted the life of His 
creature ; and surely there shall be 
demanded a strict account of the 
stewardship. It can be no excuse 
for permitting the living sensation to be abused, that a groom asked and 
the master willingly left his duties to another. Man has no business to 
collect breathing life about him and then to neglect it. Every human 
being who has a servant, a beast or- a bird about his homestead, has no 
right to rest content with the assertions of his dependents. For every 
benefit he is bound to confer some kindness. His liberality should tes- 
tify to his superiority ; but he obviously betrays his trust and abuses the 
blessings of Providence when he permits the welfare of the creatures, 
dependent on him, to be controlled by any judgment but his own. 




BUKNINO FOR LAMPAS. 



INJURIESTOTHEJAW. 69 

The author will not describe the mode of firing for larapas. It is 
sufficient here to inform the reader that the operation consists in burning 
away the groom's imaginary prominences upon the palate. The living 
and feeling substance within a sensitive and timid animal's mouth is 
actually consumed by fire. He, however, who plays with such tools as 
red-hot irons cannot say, "thus far shalt thou go." He loses all com- 
mand when the fearful instrument touches the living flesh : the palate 
has been burnt away, and the admirable service performed by the bars, 
that of retaining the food during mastication, destroyed. The bone 
beneath the palate has been injured ; much time and much money have 
been wasted to remedy the consequence of a needless barbarity, and, after 
all, the horse has been left a confirmed "wheezer." The animal's sense 
being confused, and its brain agitated by the agony, the lower jaw has 
closed spasmodically upon the red-hot iron ; and the teeth have seized 
with the tenacity of madness upon the heated metal. 

When the lampas is reported to you, refuse to sanction so terrible a 
remedy ; order the horse a little rest, and cooling or soft food. In short, 
only pursue those measures which the employment of the farrier's cure 
would have rendered imperative, and, in far less time than the groom's 
proposition would have occupied, the horse will be quite well and once 
more fit for service. 

INJURIES TO THE JAW. 

Save when needless severity urges timidity to madness, the horse is 
naturally obedient. This is the instinct of the race. The strong quad- 
ruped delights to labor under the command of the weaker biped. Its 
movements are regulated by him who sits above or behind it. It often 
waits for hours with its head pulled backward, its mouth pained, and its 
eyes blinded. All its learning is attention to the sounds of the human 
voice. It is guided by touches. It submits to the whip when it might 
easily destroy the whipper. It eats, it drinks, it rests only by man's per- 
mission. Yet there are such words as "vice" and "spite" connected 
with the ho-rse ; but there remains to be spoken the word which shall 
fitly characterize the self-sacrificing life of the noble animal. 

Man could not endure such tyranny, nor does the horse, notwith- 
standing its submissive instinct, live under it very long. The majority 
perish before they are eight years old. They are worked to an early 
grave — often they ai-e distorted before the body's growth is completed. 
Is there any other life so serviceable ? Is there any other life which 
reads so sad a moral ? For the time it is allowed to breathe and labor, 
the horse patiently obeys its tyrant. It aids his vanity ; it conforms to 
his pleasure; it devotes strength, will, and life to man's service. 



10 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 




THE SNAFFLE BEARING UPON THE 
LOWER JAW. 



Let every owner of a horse treat his slave with gentleness. Above 
all things, let no individual employ the 
reins as instruments of torture. The horse 
will neither be wiser nor better for such a 
mode of punishment. Besides, the man 
may deteriorate his own or another's prop- 
erty. With the bit a jaw has been broken ; 
and with the snaffle the bone has been in- 
jured. An animal with a good neck carries 
the chin near to the chest. The iron of the 
snaffle, therefore, cannot pull against the 
angles of the mouth. It rests upon the 
gums, and because this point is by some 
disputed, the following illustration of the fact is inserted. 

The cruel bit is, however, in general use with carriage horses. 
Fashion delights in a vehicle stopped smartly at a door. The greatest 
noise possible then announces the new arrival. The wheels grate — 
the horses struggle. The coachman pulls hard — the vehicle sways to 
and fro. The footman jumps down and pulls at the bell as though life 
and death depended on a speedy answer to his summons. 

All this is, doubtless, very pleasant, but how does it operate upon the 
poor horses ? These, to be pulled up sud- 
denly, must be thrown upon their haunches 
by the unscrupulous use of the bit. The 
pressure often wounds more than the gums ; 
frequently the bone of the lower jaw is 
bruised. The gum then must slough, and a 
portion of bone must be cast off. The ex- 
foliation of bone is a tedious process accom- 
panied with an abominable stench. The 
surgeon must be constantly in attendance; 
otherwise the gum might close over the ex- 
foliating bone and numerous sinuses might 
be established within the mouth. The ex- 
foliated substance must come away. The abscess, which would announce 
its retention, would be more painful than the open wound, and ultimately 
would turn to a foul and ragged ulcer. Such an injury may occur 
wherever the bit rests, before or behind the tush, and a similar injury, 
though not to the same extent, will result from an unscrupulous use of 
the snaffle. 

Supposing a case of this description is submitted to your notice upon 
the day succeeding its occurrence. No change is anticipated, such as 




THE EFFECTS PRODUCED ON THE 
LOWER JAW I!Y THE ENERG1.TIC 
USE OF THE SNAFFLE OR BIT. 

The most forward and smaller 
mark indicates the injury usually 
done by pulling at the snaffle. 'Jhe 
more backward dark place indi- 
cates the spot where tup:g;ing at the 
bit bruises the bone of the lower 
jaw. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 



Yl 




would denote a bruise to other structures. The covering to the gums 
is thick and hard, and it will conceal much that may be taking place 
beneath it. If any spot be darker, redder, or whiter in color, — if any 
place be more sensitive than the adjacent parts, the knife is th»re in- 
serted till it grate upon the bone. The extent of the necessary incision 
is decided by the efforts made in resistance. A thin fluid may issue 
from the orifice; but when the knife grates upon the bone, then the 
animal's struggles announce the extent of the bruise. Sound bone may 
be cut, scraped, or even burnt with impunity; but when bruised or 
otherwise diseased, the structure is most acutely sensitive. 

When the wound emits its characteristic odor, a lotion composed of 
chloride of zinc, one scruple; water, one pint; ess. of aniseseed a suffi- 
ciency, should be syringed into the openings, several times during the 
day. The lotion, also, has a tendency to heal the sores, which must be 
counteracted by the employment of the knife. 
Occasionally, however wide the incision, it 
may be too small for the cast off bone to 
escape from. The knife again must enlarge 
the orifice, and the forceps be inserted to 
grasp the exfoliated substance. That taken 
away, the lotion is continued and the injury 
left to heal at Nature's pleasure. 

The late W. Percivall, in his excellent 
work, entitled "Hippopathology," describes horses as sometimes injured 
under the tongue by the port of the bit. An engraving, representing 
such an injury, is given ; but it is hoped no gentleman of the present 
day would employ the severe invention by which alone such a hurt could 
be produced. The consequences may be lasting. The terminations of 
the sublingual ducts are included in the blackness. Were these bruised 
and inflamed, their delicate mouths might be obliterated and hopeless 
fistula be established. 

The bit must be sharply and strongly tugged at before it cau harm 
the roof the mouth. Any one who has seen horses pulled up before a 
fashionable mansion must have observed them open 
wide their mouths. They do this to escape the 
wound of the bit. The animals extend their jaws 
to prevent it striking the roof of the mouth. Not- 
withstanding the existing age is more civilized than 
those which preceded it, the bits used at the present 
time can, without any vast display of genius, be 
made to injure the obedient animal, for whose mouth 
such ferocious checks are forged. An injury thus inflicted is sufiBciently 



INJURY SOMETIMES ACCO:\IPI.ISHED 
WITH THE PORT OF THE BIT. 




THE UPPER JAW INJURED 
BY THE BARBAROUS USB 
OF THE BIT. 



72 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 



serious. The bony roof not only supports the bars, but also forms the 
solid floor of the nostrils. As it is not very thick, the greater is the 
danger when it is injured. The wound, because of the unyielding sub- 
stance on which it is inflicted, is more painful than that of the lower jaw. 
It is also for the same reason more severe. 

The last injury demands the same treatment as has already been de- 
scribed, only the remedies are far more difiicult to apply. Should the 
entire portion of bone exfoliate and a hole be left behind, the conse- 
quence is not of fatal import. Bone can reproduce itself, though it is 
somewhat eccentric in its growth. So after the opening is closed, the 
surface toward the nostrils may be uneven, and the horse be rendered an 
inveterate wheezer. 

When the animal is once injured, never, for your own safety, after- 
ward employ a bit. If it be ridden or driven, always use a snafile, and 
use even that most tenderly. The horse has vivid recollections, and man 
is naturally forgetful. When power is entrusted to the oblivious, danger 
is apt to be close at hand. 

The inferior margin of the jaw-bone is liable to harm from the curb 
chain, and some men will have the curb chain tight. Such people are 
commonly very imperious. They shout, and slash, and tug when they 
want obedience from an animal whose delight is to be allowed to please. 
Their meaning is seldom comprehended, and therefore their orders are 
rarely obeyed ; whereas, they would be humbly propitiated, were their 
commands only given as though the animal had no interest to rebel. 
The result of such violence is, from the curb chain being ruthlessly 

jerked, the jaw-bone soon enlarges. A 
portion of the bone having been bruised, 
has to exfoliate ; a foul abscess forms ; 
tumor speedily succeeds to tumor; os- 
seous structure is thrown out and a swell- 
ing is matured, before the enlargement 
heals. 

The treatment of such a case is simi- 
lar to that already directed. Keep the 
wound freely open, to permit the unim- 
peded exit of exfoliated bone. Use the 
lotion, previously directed, liberally and 
constantly. The healing process may then take place without deformity 
being left behind 




TUMOR PROVOKED BY THE ABUSE OF THE 
CURB CHAIN. 



APHTHA. 73 



APHTHA. 



Nothing proves the sympathy which binds nature more strongly than 
the sameness or similarity of the diseases that affect man and animals. 
Tetanus, pneumonia, enteritis, etc. are so alike as to be the same in the 
human being and in the horse. From the cow was derived the safe- 
guard from the ravages of the small-pox, and the medical profession has, 
by its want of feeling, more than recognized a likeness, linking humanity 
to the dog ; in the motive which alone could prompt abuse of a most 
affectionate animal. 

It is a sad proof of the stubbornness of pride, that a unity, thus en- 
forced by suffering, should be ignored, as though it were an insult to 
the superior. No compact, founded by nature, can be dependent upon 
man's liking. The terms may be laughed at, scorned or denied, but 
these exist. Man is declared in affliction to be the companion of other 
life. When will this truth be acknowledged, and the entire family of 
nature live in one brotherhood ? 

Aphtha is a human disorder as well as an equine disease. It generally 
appears in spring and autumn, being produced by 
heat of body. May not a slight attack of aphtha 
sometimes explain that which the groom intends by /l^^k^—^ 

lampas ? At all events, aphtha is accompanied by i ''m^^^^^k, 
dullness and a refusal to feed. Both lips commonly mm 
swell as the lethargy increases ; the tongue tumefies, 
becomes decidedly red, and generally hangs out of 
the mouth, partly for the sake of coolness, partly to 
accommodate its enlarged size Around the mouth 
little lumps break forth, which at first are stony ^ \ 

hard, and others, though of a larger size, may be aphtha. . 

felt upon the tongue. Yesicles are soon developed 
from these spots, and each contains a small quantity of clear gelatinous 
fluid. The bladders burst ; crusts form ; and by the time these fall off, 
the complaint has disappeared. 

Some good thick gruel and a few boiled roots, which should be re- 
peatedly changed, must constitute the nourishment while the disease 
lasts, or during the period that the mouth is sore. No medicine ; a 
little kindness is now worth a ship load of drugs. When the pimples 
are about to burst, the following may be prepared : — 

Borax Five ounces. 

Boiling water One gallon. 

Honey or treacle Two pints. 

When the mixture has cooled, hold up the horse's head and pour 




•74 LACERATED TONGUE. 

half a pint into the mouth. Half a minute afterward remove the 
hand ; allow the head to fall and the fluid to run out of the lips. This 
mixture should be us,ed several times during the day. Beyond this 
nothing is needed, excepting a cool, loose box, a good bed, body and 
head clothing, with flannel bandages, not too tight, about the legs. Work 
should on no account be sanctioned until the last vestige of the disorder 
has vanished, and its attendant weakness has entirely disappeared. 

LACERATED TONGUE. 

Men who become proprietors of animal life undertake a larger re- 
sponsibility than the generality of horse owners are willing to admit. 
They are answerable for their own conduct toward the dumb existence 
over which they are legally invested with the right of property ; they are 
also morally accountable for the conduct of those to whose charge they 
entrust their living possessions. The appearance of those men who con- 
gregate about the stable doors of the rich is not very prepossessing. 
Their looks express cunning far more than goodness. Their long narrow 
heads denote none of that wisdom which alone can comprehend and 
practice kindness for its own sake. Their eyes and actions have a 
quickness at sad variance with the affected repose of their manners. 
Their dress declares a vanity, that is much opposed to the humility in 
which a wise man loves to confide. 

There is nothing about horses which should degrade men ; yet it 
cannot be denied, that the vast majority of stable men are rogues. How 
can this be accounted for ? Is it diflicult to understand, when we see 
the unlimited trust put into a groom's hands, and the common abuse of 
confidence by the man who enjoys it? No slave proprietor possesses 
the power with which the groom is invested. It is true, the slave owner 
can lash the flesh he terms his property. However, there is in humanity 
a voice which puts some limit to the ill usage of the negro. The groom 
can beat and beat again, at any time or in any place. No voice can be 
raised in appeal to nature. The groom's charge lives beneath him, and 
day or night is exposed to his tyranny. He may chastise the body and 
steal the food, still, so no human eye detect, the horse will quietly look 
upon the wronger it never can accuse. 

A good man would seek far, before he would repose so large a trust 
in another person. The gentleman generally engages the groom after a 
trivial questioning. His desire is to have a servant entirely corrupt; 
one who asserts a knowledge how to trick animals into health. No 
examination is made into the real character of the applicant. A vast 
confidence is off-hand reposed in an individual who may be without a 



LACERATED TONGUE. 



T5 



single moral attribute. Who deserves blame for such an abuse of re- 
sponsibility ? He who has been educated into kuowingness, and, having 
become thoroughly degraded, esteems himself fully qualified for the situa- 
tion he demands to fill, or he who, having the benefit of education, and 
being blessed with leisure for self-inquiry, shirks his duty and transfers 
his authority to unworthy hands ? 

Every groom fancies he knows how to compound something he calls a 
condition ball, — that is, a certain mixture of drugs, which shall bring a 
living body suddenly into "tip-top" health. A bevy of companions are 
invited to see "Jim give a ball." They duly arrive, and part of the 
horse's tongue is speedily made to protrude from the mouth, this portion 
being firmly held by "Jim's" free hand. The condition ball is in "Jim's" 




STICKING TO A HORSE. 



other hand, and the exhibition consists in the marvelous adroitness with 
which the ball can be introduced between the animal's jaws. The horse 
soon sympathizes with the excitement that surrounds it. Jim, "quick 
as lightning," makes a thrust with the ball, whereupon the startled 
animal raises the head and retreats. "Stick to him, Jim!" "stick to 
him !" shout the visitors. Jim does stick to him until his hand is covered 
with blood, or, without quitting its gripe, suddenly loses the resistance, 
which constituted its hold. Should it be the former, the froenum of the 
tongue is ruptured, and a wetted sponge soon clears the hand of the 
groom as well as the mouth of the horse. A general curse and a kick 
under the belly of the rebellious steed end the amusements for one day. 
Should it be the latter, Jim finds the larger portion of the quadruped's 
tongue left in his hand. This is an awful accident. The blood is wiped 
off, and the groom next morning goes to his master with, "Please, sir, 
see what 'Fugleman' has done in his sleep !" 



76 LACERATED TONGUE. 

A farmer engages a pretty-looking stable boy. The young scamp is 
sufficiently a groom to glory in nothing so much as deception. The 
farmer, however, takes this pretty boy to the fair, where an additional 
horse is purchased. With the new "dobbin" the boy is entrusted, being 
cautioned to lead it gently home. With numerous protestations boy and 
horse depart, but have barely reached the suburbs before the knowing 
youngster stops "dobbin," and, twisting the halter in " a chaw," leads the 
animal to the nearest gate, where the lad climbs upon its back. 

"A chaw" is the slang short phrase for something to chew. This is 
made by twisting the halter into the animal's mouth so as to encircle the 
jaw. In this position the rope is thought by some knowing people to 
answer the purposes of a bridle. To this rope the boy hangs, rolling to 
either side; now, nearly off — and now, jerked from his seat, as "dobbin," 
after repeated urgings, starts off into the lazy pretense at a trot. 

Anything inserted into a horse's mouth provokes the curiosity of the 
animal. It is felt and poked about with the tongue, till at last the 
lingual organ is, by the exercise of much ingenuity, inserted beneath the 
obstacle. In this state of affairs, " dobbin" and the pretty boy finish 
the latter half of the journey. The youngster laughing, as the rough 
action of the horse bumps him up and down, he all the time dragging at 
the halter. Before home is reached, night has set in ; the boy dis- 
mounts, and with all the simplicity his face can assume leads " dobbin" 
to, the homestead. 

The boy is protesting about being so very tired after his long walk, 
when the horse's mouth is discovered to be stained with blood. The 
youthful expression of surprise exceeds that of the elder's. Next the 
halter is found to be rich with the same fluid. The horse's mouth is 
then opened, it is full of blood, and the tongue nearly cut through. 
Accusations are made against the lad ; at first they are replied to with 
defiance; at last they are propitiated with tears, drawn forth by the 
idea of honesty being suspected. Youthful knowing, however, is not in 
the long run a match for the self-interest of age ; and perseverance is 
rewarded by a full confession. 

"The chaw" is an artifice recognized in every stable. Grooms have 
their tastes. It is very unpleasant to these gentry when they behold 
some unmannerly horse hang back in the halter. Stalls are drained into 
a main channel, situated at the edge of the gangway. The pavement on 
which the animal stands consequently slants from the manger to the 
footpath. This nice arrangement obliges the horse always to stand 
with the toes in the air and throws the weight of the body upon the 
back sinews. To ease its aching limbs the animal is apt to go to the 
extent of its rope, so as to place the hind feet upon the gangway, and 



LACERATED TONGUE. 




ABUSE OF THE HALTER. 



even occasionally to give the toe an opposite direction by allowing it to 
sink into the open drain. Such presumption horrifies the groom's sense 
of propriety. The ignorant mind's idea 
of beauty is "everything to match." He 
thinks all is so nice when the animals dress 
to a line, like soldiers on parade. To have 
this line preserved, even in his absence, he 
puts "a chaw" into the refractory "brute's" 
mouth. This chaw is to be preserved night 
and day. The tongue soon gets under the 
rope. Timidity is rendered yet more fearful 

by persecution. The voice of the groom has become a terror to the 
quadruped. It hangs back for ease, and is surprised by the vehement 
exclamation of the tormentor. Back goes the neck and up goes the 
head. The animal runs to its manger, but something has fallen upon 
the floor I The horse was luxuriating in hanging back to the full ex- 
tent when surprised. The sudden start jerked the halter rein, and the 
result is the free portion of the tongue falls from the mouth, severed by 
the rope. 

These are lamentable instances of the general behavior of grooms to 
the creatures entrusted to their care. Nothing is so corruptive as mis- 
placed authority. A little mind knows no difference between the pos- 
session of power and the indulgence of tyranny. The use and the abuse 
are synonyms to the ignorant ; and the sins committed principally reside 
with him who places the life Heaven has entrusted to his care in such 
unworthy custody. 

When a tongue is partially divided, do not insert sutures of any kind. 
Metallic sutures wound the fleshy palate, and silk sutures soon slough 
out. Neither, therefore, does good, and 
each serves to confine the food which ^^..^^ ,. 

enters the division. Foreign matter irri- ^^fct' '^^^^^sV^— ^ 

tates a wound and retards its healing. 
Consequently, do nothing to the tongue 
when partially divided. Feed the patient 
on gruel until the healing is complete, and 
wash out the mouth thrice daily, with some 
chloride of zinc lotion, one scruple of the 
salt to a pint of water, after the manner 
described in the preceding article. 

Should the tongue be separated to that extent which divides the ves- 
sels, then, with a knife remove the lacerated part, which otherwise being 
deprived of support, must slough ofl'. Still do nothing to the tongue 




THE TONOITE HEALED AFTER HAVINr, BEEN 
DEEPLY CUT BUT NUT SUNDERKD. 

The jaw has ))een divided to show the 
injured tongue, as it would appear in the 
mouth. 

a. The indentation at the seat of injury, 
and which will remain so long as life 
shall continue. 



78 TEETH. 

afterward. Feed on thick gfuel and wash out the mouth with the lotion, 
A horse witli half a tongue will manage to eat and drink, but some food 
is spilt and some left in the manger. Constant dribbling of saliva is 
the chief consequence of such an injury. This is unpleasant, and arises 
from deglutition being injured. A horse which has had the tongue 
lacerated only, but not divided, forever retains the evidence of the in- 
jury; and as the food is apt to accumulate at the point of union, the 
animal ever after demands attention subsequent to every meal. 

TEETH. 

No fact is more discreditable to humanity than the small attention it 
has wasted upon the beautiful lives entrusted to its charge. Mortal 
pride asserts these creatures are given man for his use. Yes. But is 
the full use obtained ? Are not the lives sacriiiced ? The horse has 
been the partner of mankind from the earliest period. For centuries at 
least the animal has been watched throughout the day; yet, even at this 
time, equine disorders are only beginning to be understood. Does this 
fact denote that care which such a charge demanded ? 

Cutting the permanent teeth seems, in the horse, to be effected at 
some expense to the system; it was a favorite custom with the farriers 
of the last century to trace numerous affections to the teething of the 
animal. Further inquiries have proved our grandfathers knew positively 
nothing about those growths, concerning which they assumed so much. 
The late W. Percivall traced sickness in the horse to irritation, arising 
from cutting of the tushes; there, however, our knowledge ends. Yet- 
erinarians have not, as a rule, either leisure or the necessary power to 
observe those animals it is their province to treat ; they generally are 
but passing visitors to the stables into which they are called. Those 
who have studs of horses nominally placed under their charge feel they 
are retained not to watch, but to physic the animals to which the groom 
directs their attention. 

The tushes of the upper jaw may, however, be fully up, and yet not 
have appeared in the mouth ; this fact is easily explained. The advent 
of the tushes provoked acute inflammation of the membrane covering the 
jaw. The horse was cured of the attendant constitutional symptoms, 
but the cause of the disorder was mistaken. The acute inflammation 
changed into chronic irritation. The membrane, which in the first in- 
stance should have been lanced, thickened and imprisoned the tush 
beneath it; an incision is even now the only remedy, and should in- 
stantly be made. 

Neither tushes nor incisors are known to be exposed to other accidents ; 
it is, however, different with the molar teeth. These teeth consist of 



TEETH. 



79 



three components ; bone or ivory constitutes the chief bullc of the organ, 
and over that is spread a thin covering of inorganic enamel, the whole 
being invested with a fibrous coating of crusta petrosa. The enamel is 
the material on which the tooth depends for its cutting properties ; the 
manner in which the edge is preserved deserves attention, for the brick- 
layer's trowel appears to have been suggested by it. A thin coat of 
hard but brittle enamel is held between the two other bulky and tough 
substances, just as a thin layer of steel is protected by coatings of yield- 
ing iron in the house-builder's instrument. 

The highly organized crusta petrosa is often injured; to understand 
this, we must first comprehend the vast power which urges the jaw of 
the horse. The motion resides entirely in the lower portion of the skull, 
which is moved by strong, very strong muscles, going direct from their 
attachments to their insertions. No force is lost by the arrangement, and 
no less a motor power was required to comminute the hays and oats on 
which the horse subsists. The machinery seems to be admirably adapted 
to its purposes; and to be so strongly 
framed as to defy all chance of injury. 
Man, however, has a mighty talent for evil ; 
it does not always suit the convenience of 
the groom to sift the pebbles from the grain ; 
corn and stones are hastily cast into the man- 
ger, and the poor horse, having no hands to 
select with, must masticate all alike. The 
reader can imagine the wrench which will 
ensue, when a flint suddenly checks the 
movement of the molar teeth. The crusta 
petrosa is bruised upon the large fang of the tooth, 
lished, and sad toothache has soon to be endured. 

Then there are the effects of the 
powerful acids in much favor with 
most grooms and too many veteri- 
nary surgeons ; moreover, there are 
the sulphates, which in every pos- 
sible form enter into veterinary 
medicine; the nitrates, likewise, are 
much esteemed, and are given in 
enormous doses. All of these much 
aflfect the crystalline enamel of the 
molar tooth; a small hole is first 

formed; into this the food enters and there putrifies; caries and tooth- 
ache are the result. 




A HORSE WITH TOOTHACHE. 



Disease is estab- 




HORSE QUIDBING, OB ALLOWING THE POOD 
TO FALL FROM ITS MOUTH SUBSEQUENT TO 
MASTICATION. 



80 TEE T H. 

A horse with toothache upon certain days sweats and labors at its 
work ; saliva hangs in long bands from the under lip ; the countenance 
is utterly dejected ; the head is carried on one side or pressed against 
some solid substance, as a wall. The food is " quidded" — that is, it is 
partially masticated, when, from acute agony, the jaws relax, the teeth 
separate, the lips part, and the morsel falls from the mouth, more or less 
resembling what is termed "a quid of tobacco." 

Upon other days the animal is bounding with life and spirits ; the 
movements are light, and the motions are expressive of perfect happi- 
ness. The head is carried jauntily ; the lips are compressed ; the saliva 
ceases to exude ; the food is devoured with an evident relish, and the 
general health appears to be better than it was before the strange dis- 
ease. The continuance of such bliss is, however, very doubtful ; the 
different stages will often succeed one another with vexatious rapidity. 

If nothing be done, the horse alternates between anguish and happi- 
ness for an unascertained period, when all acute symptoms apparently 
cease. The lips, though no longer actually wet, are not positively dry; 
the food is often eaten ; but as time progresses a sort of gloom hangs 
about the animal, and deepens every day. The horse seems never free 
from some unaccountable torture; more time is now occupied in clearing 
the manger ; then the hay may be consumed, but the oats remain un- 
touched. These last are found soaked in apparent water ; the fluid 
turns out to be saliva ; the symptoms by degrees become more severe ; 
a strangely unpleasant odor characterizes the breath ; the flesh wastes, 
and the animal ultimately exhibits hide-bound. 

This stage being attained, and the proprietor becoming much per- 
plexed, he is one morning informed by the groom, who displays many 
nods and winks, of a certain mysterious receipt for a wonderful ball that 
never fails, but always cures. The potent bolus is sent for to the chemist, 

and, after sundry explanations, is com- 
pounded. The groom, stiff with pride, 
takes the magic morsel; it is pushed 
rapidly into the horse's mouth ; an ex- 
clamation from the man follows the 
disappearance of the hand, which is 
retracted bathed in blood. 

To afford time for the writer to ex- 

AMOI..R TOOTH HAS BECOME VEKY LONG FROM V^^^^ thiS iUCideUt, thC readCr mUSt 

THE WANT OF ATTRITION IN THE OPPOSING vouchsafc somB patieucc. Thc horse's 

molar teeth are miniature grindstones. 
To supply the wear and tear of so violent a service, the molar teeth, 
originally, have enormous fangs, and, as the eating surface is worn 





TEETH. 81 

away, the fangs are thrust into the mouth by the contraction of the 
jaw-bones. 

Caries at first pains, but at last destroys all feeling or life in the 
tooth ; the dead organ ceases to possess any vital quality ; it loses all 
power of self-preservation, and is a mere piece of dead matter opposed 
to a living agent. In consequence, it 
breaks away, while the opposing molar 
projects more forward from the absence 
of attrition. The healthy tooth at last 
bears against the unprotected gum, 
upon which it presses severely, and 
provokes the greatest agony. The 
animal endeavors to prevent the prom- 
inent tooth from paining the jaw by 

r : O J J THE MOLAR TEETH HAVE BEEN GROUND SLAXT- 

masticating entirely upon the sound i^«- ^^^ "■"'= sharp edges, from the 

° ^1 horse masticating only upon one side. 

side. Hunger is slowly, and perhaps 

never, satisfied by such imperfect comminution ; the outside of the upper 
molars and the inside of the lower molars become slanting; the first 
being almost as sharp as razors, wound the membrane of the mouth and 
lay open the hand which is thrust into the cavity. 

If the disease be still neglected and permitted to increase, the stench 
grows more formidable; nasal gleet appears; the discharge is copious, 
accompanied by a putrid odor; osseous tumors commence; the bones of 
the face are distorted; the eye is imprisoned, and ultimately obliterated 
within the socket by actual pressure ; eating becomes more and more 
painful, until starvation wastes the body and reduces the horse to a 
hide-bound skeleton. 

If such a case be taken early, its cure is easy and certain; the dead 
tooth must be extracted, and the prominent molar shortened by means 
of the adjusting forceps and the guarded chisel, invented by Mr. T. W. 
Go wing, veterinary surgeon, of Camden Town. Then the sharp edges 
must be lowered by the tooth-file, and if these things appear to occupy 
time, it is better done at two or even three operations, than unduly pro- 
long the agony of a sick animal. This being accomplished, all is not 
ended ; the horse's mouth must, from time to time, be again and again 
operated upon; nor will the creature offer much opposition to the 
proceeding, if only proper gentleness be observed. 

Aged horses, from the contraction of the lower jaw, (which change 
is natural to increase of years in the equine race,) frequently have their 
upper molars ground to a knife-like sharpness. They wound the inside 
of the cheeks, cause a disinclination to eat, and provoke a dribbling of 
saliva. The cure is the tooth-file, which should be applied until the 

6 



82 SCALD MOUTH. 

natural level is attained. This should be followed by the frequent use 
of the wash recommended for aphtha, or by the chloride of zinc lotion. 
It may probably provoke a laugh among gentlemen and horsemen to 
read of toothache in the horse. Few, very few grooms may have wit- 
nessed or have noticed such a disease, but the fact exists ; it is, indeed, 
a cruel reality to the animal which experiences it. The ignorance of 
stable men can establish nothing, for they are, as a class, equally pre- 
sumptuous and ignorant ; they have seen the horse for years, and yet are 
acquainted with neither the natural ailments nor the proper treatment of 
the animal. The toothache is to the creature a most agonizing dis- 
order. We have only to look at the healthy horse, to observe how 
exquisitely it is clothed, how finely it is framed, to imagine how sensi- 
tive must be the body. The horse seems capable of a fear the most 
cowardly of mankind never conceived. So its face, though not made for 
expression, can denote an anguish which the human mind fortunately has 
no capacity to picture. The eye is often painful in its speaking. It 
embodies a desperation, a weariness of the world, and a prayer for 
death, such as few people comprehend ; or the cry would rise, from the 
length and breadth of the land, demanding, as with one voice, the more 
Christian treatment of man's fellow-creature. 



SCALD MOUTH. 

This is an accident which occasionally occurs where grooms are too 
ignorant, or too thoughtless to read the direction labeled upon every 
bottle sent into the stable. Potent fluids are sometimes transmitted 
pure, in small bottles, though the custom is highly reprehensible ; nor is the 
practice bettered because the label orders the contents to be mixed with 
water before the medicine is administered to the horse. Grooms are 
generally careless, and proverbially in a hurry ; one of them enters the 
stable to give the drench, sees the bottle, seizes it in haste, calls the helper 
nearest the stable door, and, with such assistance, pours the liquid fire 
down the animal's throat. 

The mouth is by the potent drug deprived of its lining membrane, and 
the stomach is lastingly injured ; even if the dose be too small to oc- 
casion death, the interior of the mouth is rendered raw. Fortunate is the 
man who can be certain the evil there begins and extends no farther; 
but who can calculate the effect upon delicate, internal organs ? The 
mouth may be healed, but who can ascertain the state of the deeper in- 
jury ? Animals are treated as though their sensibilities were not affected 
by any medium pain ; something must be visible before the groom sanc- 
tions the right in his charge to be restless. All signs and motions 



SCALD MOUTH. 83 

denoting a gnawing agony, but not expressive of overpowering anguish, 
are visited with chastisement. 

The groom is not entirely to blame. The fault resides with his 
superiors, whom the servant apes. The sin rests with those who (un- 
able to keep a stud-groom) think their duty is discharged by a daily 
scamper through the stable before they go to business ; with those who 
by their manners corrupt the groom's simplicity, while by a strange 
costume they induce the ignorant fellow to regard the badge of his dis- 
grace as the upholder of his pride. To the upper classes, the short- 
comings of stable men cling ; with the superiors, whose example should 
instruct, rests the real blame of the servant. With educated men abide 
the errors of the ignorant. 

After a scalding drench, an unusual redness declares the state of the 
mouth ; a quantity of saliva flows from the restless lips, which are con- 
stantly in motion; they are being moved 
perpetually up and down, and are always 
parting with a smack. The food, for a time, 
is rejected, but good gruel, if cold, is gen- 
erally taken freely. Boiled roots should con- 
stitute the nourishment for two months after- 
ward, the mouth being all the while washed 
with the application recommended for aphtha. ^^^^^ ^^^^^ 

No immediate danger is to be apprehended 
from scald mouth. The stomach is more disposed to assume chronic 
than acute disease. Probably the temporary services of the animal 
might well be dispensed with, and much might be gained by an extra 
months' continuance of the prepared food. At all events, the experi- 
ment would be intended to ward off a possible evil; and, if we are to 
believe at all the motive, being based on goodness, the act would not 
be without its reward. 




CHAPTER IV. 

THE NOSTRILS— THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



COLD. 

It should not excite surprise if the horse, though generally strong, 
and exposed to every abuse, is occasionally subject to the disease 
which, in man, is almost the property of the delicately nurtured. The 




SELLING "a captain," AS ANT HORSE WITH A NASAL DISCHARGE IS CALLED BY THE LOW DEALERS. 

animal exists in a stable commonly kept at a high temperature by means 
of contaminated air; it is taken thence into a wintry atmosphere to 
stand for an uncertain period before the master's door. There it has 
to remain inactive, shivering in the blast, until it suits the proprietor's 
convenience to come forth ; next, it is pushed along till the perspiration 
bedews the sides. Then it has to remain, generally unprotected, in the 
cold until some business is transacted, when it is flurried home again, 
and often has to wait afterward till it suits the groom's leisure to dry 
the reeking frame. 

Can it create astonishment if an animal so treated exhibit that nasal 
affection denominated "cold ?" The case is similar with hunters. They 
leave hot stables to join the distant meet. Game may be soon started, 
(84) 



___. J 



COLD. 85 

or "the find" may occupy hours; at last, men, horses, and hounds 
scamper off; the fences are cleared ; the fields, though they be swampy 
or plowed, are crossed at the longest stride. The pace is killing 
while it lasts; at length, comes a check. That saves many a steed, 
whose breathing ability was well nigh exhausted ; but every animal has 
to shiver till the "view holloa!" again summons the assembly to motion. 

How often does my lady's "carriage stop the way?" And how long 
have the horses to stand in the rain before it does go ? How frequently 
does the gig or brougham linger near the curb, while another glass to 
good fellowship is drained ? Then, we have to reflect upon the breathing 
forms harnessed to hired carriages ; how the street cab rests in storms ! 
How, day or night, the horses must be exposed to all the varied seasons I 
Unsheltered from the sun ; with no protection from the frost 1 Let the 
reader reflect upon this and say, not if it be wonderful that a few horses 
exhibit the affection denominated cold ; but whether it is not a legiti- 
mate matter for surprise every second horse is 
not thus affected ? 

A mild cold, with care, is readily alleviated. 
A few mashes, a little green meat, an exti*a 
rug and a day or two of rest, commonly end 
the business. When the attack is more se- 
vere, the horse is dull ; the coat is rough ; the 
body is of unequal temperatures, hot in parts, 
in places icy cold. The membrane of the 
nose at first is dry and pale or leaden colored ; 
the facial sinuses are clogged ; the head aches ; 
the appetite has fled ; often tears trickle from 
the eyes, simple ophthalmia being no rare ac- a horse's heap, exhibiting a 
companiment to severe cold ; till at length a 

copious defluxion falls from the nostrils without immediately improving 
the general appearance of the animal. 

The treatment is plain. When mucous membrane is involved, all de- 
pletion must be avoided ; the invalid should be comfortably and warmly 
housed ; should have an ample bed, and the body should be plentifully 
clothed. Then a hair bag, half as long and half as wide again as the 
ordinary nose-bag, should be buckled by a broad strap on to the sick 
horse's head ; into the bag should be previously inserted one gallon of 
yellow deal saw-dust ; upon the saw-dust, through an opening guarded 
with a flap upon the side of the bag, should be emptied a kettle of boil- 
ing water, the superfluity of which may run or drain through the hair 
composing the bag. 

The boiling water ought to be renewed every twenty minutes, as the 




86 



COLD. 




STEAMINO THE NOSE OF 
WITH COLD. 



bag should be retained upon the head for an hour each time. Should 
not yellow deal saw-dust be obtainable, procure some of common deal, 

upon which last pour one ounce of spirits of 
turpentine. Mix well and thoroughly before 
you apply the bag to the head ; but should 
not a proper apparatus be in the stable, then 
it is better to forego the steaming, as the 
common nose-bag is far too short and too 
tight for safety. The cloth moreover is apt 
to swell and not to allow the free passage of 
the water. Sad accidents have ensued upon 
the incautious employment of the ordinary 
nose-bag for steaming purposes 

If the horse appear to be weak, and there 

is the slightest suspicion that the weight of 

the appliance for the time directed may tax 

the strength, let some substance, as a stool, a 

form or chair, be placed beneath the bag. The 

animal will require no teaching to understand 

the use of the intended resting-place. As the weight begins to drag, 

the head will be lowered, and after a very brief space the steaming 

apparatus will be found reposing upon its intended support. 

While the membrane is dry, use the steaming-bag six times daily. 
When a copious stream of pus flows from the nose, its application thrice 
daily will be sufficient. At the same time let the food consist of grass 
with mashes, to regulate the bowels and subdue the attendant fever. 
Give no medicine ; but the discharge being established, three daily feeds 
of crushed and scalded oats, with a few broken beans added to them, 
will do no harm. Likewise, should the weakness be great, a couple of 
pots of stout, one pot at night and the other at morning, will be bene- 
ficial. Good nursing, a loose box, fresh air, warmth, and not even exer- 
cise till the disorder abates, are also to be commended. Afterward 
take to full work with caution, as much debility is apt to ensue upon 
severe cold. It will also sometimes lead to other diseases, as those of 
the larynx, air-passages, and lungs. Should the symptoms deepen, the 
treatment must be changed ; the lesser affection (cold) being swallowed 
up by the greater disorder, which is superadded ; consequently, disre- 
gard the original ailment, taking those measures requisite to relieve the 
new and more important affliction. 

Animals with chronic cold, or with a constant running from the nose, 
soon exhibit excessive weakness. Nothing taxes the strength, so much 
as the prolonged disorder of any mucous surface. 



COLD. 



8t 




HEAD OF A HORSE WITH "A JUG," OR WITH 
ONE OF THE LYMPHATIC GLANDS OF THE THROAT 
SWOLLEN, 

1. The enlarged lymphatic within the jaw. 



All that ignorant people know of glanders is, that the disease is 
accompanied with a nasal defluxion. The more cunning in horse flesh, 
likewise, are aware that glanders 
causes the lymphatic gland within 
the jaw to swell, or that a gland- 
ered horse is always, as such peo- 
ple assert, jugged. 

Now, both the discharge and 
the enlargement are generally 
present during inveterate cold. 
Animals of this kind are sold to 
the unwary as sound horses. The 
vendors believe the quadruped to 

be glandered, or to be affected with the most terrible of equine diseases ; 
?ind the purchaser wants knowledge to perceive the contrary. 

Let, therefore, no man who buys "a captain," (which is the slang for 
a horse with nasal discharge,) become alarmed, and to some member of 
the gang from whom it was bought, resell his bargain for a few shillings. 
Large sums are often made by thus disposing of a diseased animal for a 
high price; then, directly afterward, frightening the purchaser with a 
view to buying back at a cheap rate the supposed glandered horse. 
Always take the animal to the nearest veterinary surgeon. Have the 
quadruped examined ; and, if really glandered, order it to be immediately 
destroyed. Listen to no offer ; but have the order obeyed. 

A gentleman once attending a sale, bought for a large price a fine 
black horse. No sooner had the money been paid, than a man came up 
and informed the purchaser of the real character of his recent acquisi- 
tion, offering to take the bargain off the new owner's hands for fewer 
shillings than pounds had just been given. The proposal was indig- 
nantly refused. Others came, but all encountered the same answer. 
The terms were gradually heightened, till double the money expended 
was tendered. The horse, however, was destroyed; thus a gang of 
swindlers were deprived of a property which, they owned, had for the last 
year earned them an easy thousand pounds. 

Every man, however, must not anticipate so favorable a proposal. 
The animals mostly are worthless, and would only be rebought for a 
very trifle ; the swindlers, generally, being perfectly indifferent whether 
their eyes ever again behold a creature which can be easily replaced. 



88 



NASAL POLYPUS. 




NASAL POLYPUS. 

A poljrpus, when not otherwise distinguished, represents a pear-shaped 
body, which has little sensation, but great vascularity. It is not malig- 
nant, and its growth is generally rapid. By the increase of its weight, 
the polypus ultimately hangs from the spot where it grew, 
and becomes pendant by a sort of stalk, formed principally 
by the blood-vessels enveloped in the membrane which coats 
the tumor. Such growths are peculiar to mucous tissues, 
or to all the cavities of the body which communicate with 
the external air. With regard to the horse, polypus is 
mostly met with in the nostrils. 

It is a disputed point how these growths are occasioned. 
However, no compliment is paid to the veterinary science, 
when it is asserted that, even to this day, no recognized 
plan of treatment for polypus has been laid down. Such tumors are 
allowed to be removed with the knife, by ligature, by traction, and by 
tortion ; in short, as you please. The first has generally been employed 
after a most butcherly fashion, slicing a piece off one day, and taking a 
morsel the next, till by slow degrees the whole was extirpated. So bar- 
barous an operation is only worthy of ancient farriery; the blood lost 
must be enormous, and the subsequent weakness of the animal must more 
than counterbalance any benefit which the operation could have promised. 
Mr. Varnell, assistant professor at the Royal Veterinary College, lately 
removed a growth of this kind in a much more surgical fashion. That 
gentleman had a knife made with an angular blade; by employing this 
instrument, he was enabled to excise the tumor with a single cut, inflict- 
ing little pain, but affording immediate and lasting benefit to the crea- 
ture. Where it can be employed, Mr. Varnell's angular knife is to be 
recommended, as the quickest and most eflBcient 
means of eradication which the public possess. 

Tortion is more repulsive in appearance than in 
reality. A pair of scissors having sharp curved 
claws, at the expanded ends of blunt blades, are em- 
ployed. The tumor is seized by the claws, a little 
pressure is made, and, at the same time, the scissors 
are drawn slightly forward. By that means the points 
are driven into the substance, and a firm hold is ob- 
tained. The handles of the scissors are next fastened 
together with wire, or not, at the pleasure of the operator. The scissors 
are afterward made to revolve several times, and with each revolution 




POLYPUS FORCEPS OR 
SCISSORS. 



NASAL POLYPUS. 89 

they oblige the polypus to turn upon its pedicle, which motion first 
twists and ultimately ruptures it. The growth is thus removed ; as the 
polypus is not very sensitive, and the operation should be soon over, 
small suffering is inflicted, when compared with the permanent ease which 
the proceeding insures. 

Of the operation by traction or dragging away, no notice will be 
taken ; it is a vulgar and a cruel affair. Ligature, however, where it 
can be used, is generally preferred ; because the employment of it is not 
so sudden, and, consequently, not apparently so violent; because no 
blood generally follows the removal, and therefore thei'e is no visible 
evidence of pain. The writer is not certain it is the least painful of the 
methods proposed; the relief is delayed, although the appearance and 
the appetite of the animal are assurances that nothing approaching to 
agony is inflicted. 

For ligature procure a fine, hollow tube, having at one end a cover 
made to screw on and off; the opposite extremity must be open, and 
should have a cross bar attached externally, one inch from the termina- 
tion. Upon the cover two holes must be bored, each large enough to 
admit a fine wire ; to arm this 
instrument, which should be 
about eighteen inches long, 
procure a piece of zinc wire 
one yard and a half long; 
push this through one of the 

holes on the unscrewed cover and down the tube ; screw on the cover ; 
fasten the projecting end of the wire to the cross bar; return the 
wire through the other hole, and, passing it down the tube, leave it 
hanging free. Form of the wire a loop, large enough to surround the 
polypus ; pass it gently over the head of the growth ; by means of the 
tube, work the loop upward, tightening the wire as the size of the poly- 
pus diminishes. When the wire is round the pedicle, fix it by winding 
it also over the cross bar; then slowly make turns with the tube, 
observing the growth while so doing. When the tumor changes color 
or the aniijial exhibits pain, discontinue all further movements ; release 
the wires from the cross bar and withdraw the tube, leaving the ends of 
the ligature protruding from the nostril and turned up on one side 
of the face. 

Order the horse to be fastened to the pillar-reins that night, and to be 
watched while feeding. The next day, if the tumor do not feel sensibly 
cold and has not evidently lost the living hue, reinsert the wires into the 
tube, fix them again on the cross bar, and give another turn or two. If 
small alteration be subsequently observed, the same evening the pro- 




DIAORAM OP A TUBE FOR THE REMOVAL OP NASAL POLYPUS. 



90 NASAL POLYPUS. 

ceeding may be repeated ; but, when death appears confirmed in the 
tumor, twist the tube till the pedicle gives way. 

The advantages possessed by this invention is, firstly, the ability of 
twisting a ligature tight when the growth is partly removed from view. 
Also, in the adoption of wire which will retain the form it is placed in, 
and remain unaffected by the moisture natural to the nostrils. More- 
over, the tube can be made without the screwing head-piece, and answers 
quite as well, or even better, when solid. If made without the screwing 
head-piece, it can assume a flattened form, and it is somewhat easier to 
introduce ; but the wire, in that case, must have both ends pushed 
through the holes down the tube. 

The bleeding polypus is not met with in the horse. For that poly- 
pus which sprouts from the nasal membrane and extends to the fauces, 
impeding respiration and deglutition, appearing like a disease of the 
structure, to which it is attached by a broad base, nothing can be done. 
It grows fast, and in a short time renders longer life a larger misery. 

The polypus which admits of removal is a smooth, moist, glistening 
and vascular body. It greatly impedes the breathing. These growths 
have been known to push out the cartilaginous division of the nostrils 
until the once free passage was all but obliterated. They provoke a 

constant discharge of pure mu- 
cus, and, on that account, the 
horse, thus affected, has been 
condemned as glandered. How- 
A TENACULUM. Gvcr, thc truth may be at once 

recognized by closing the nos- 
trils alternately. It is then easy to discover which cavity is affected, as 
a resistance is provoked by stopping the free channel, which bears no 
resemblance to glanders. To bring down the polypus, cough the horse, 
by making gentle pressure upon the topmost part of the windpipe ; for, 
during the stages of glanders, any appearance at all resembling polypus 
is never present. It was usual, the instant the growth was visible, 
to transfer it with a tenaculum. This, however, like other barbarities, 
only did harm. The substance of a polypus is easily rent, and it bleeds 
freely. The bleeding concealed much, which, after proceedings rendered 
necessary, should be plainly seen. It is better, when sufficient room is 
not left for operation or inspection, to proceed with greater boldness, so 
as to ascertain the advantages likely to result from further measures. 
Then throw the horse, and with a probe-pointed, straight bistoury, slit 
up the nostril upon the outer side. That done, release the animal till 
all bleeding has ceased, when the endeavors may be renewed with a 
better prospect of success. Afterward, close the incision with a double 




NASAL GLEET. 



91 



set of sutures, (one set to the true nostril and another for the false nos- 
tril.) Apply to the wound the chloride of 
zinc wash, and in a short time all will be 
healed. 

Nasal polypus, nevertheless, is an affec- 
tion often requiring the performance of 
tracheotomy, before any examination can be 
attempted. For this necessity, the operator 
must be prepared ; but, as tracheotomy is 
required only to relieve the breathing during 
examination, the temporary tube invented 
by Mr. Gowing is, in that instance, decidedly to be recommended. 




NASAL POLYPUS. 



NASAL GLEET. 



This terrible affliction is suppuration of the mucous membrane, lining 
the facial sinuses. It rarely occurs in the stable ; but when it does, the 
cause mostly is to be traced to the projection of some molar tooth, and 
ihe disease is then generally hopeless. The pressure of the tooth has 
provoked irritation of the bone. The sinuses are no longer hollow 
spaces, but have been converted into cavities crowded with bony net- 
work. To cleanse them in that condition is impossible, and death is 
the only resort left to a humane proprietor. 

Horses, when allowed a run at grass, are often taken up with the 
bones of the face swollen and soft. Percussion draws forth the same 
response as would be elicited by rapping upon a pumpkin. The animal, 
suddenly released from toil, has been playing in the field with its new 
associates. The simple creature could not comprehend 
the feet were fettered. The equine race always dis- 
play joy with their heels, and the hoof, which unshod 
might lightly touch the neighbor's skull and no injury 
result, being armed with iron carries additional weight 
with the blow, and leaves behind a deadly bruise upon 
the facial bones. The following engraving, represent- 
ing an extreme case of this kind, is a warning never to 
turn your animal into a field where others are grazing; 
but if you are obliged to starve a horse on grass, at all 
events choose a spot where it can be alone. 

Besides the distortion, the next prominent symptom 
attending nasal gleet is fetor. Discharge is not always 
present. It is irregular in its appearance, but can 
generally be made to flow, by a brisk trot or by some tempting food 




NASAL GLEET. 



92 



NASAL aLEET. 



being placed upon the ground. Stench and discharge, often coming 
only from one nostril, but occasionally from two, are likewise sympto- 
matic of the same disorder. 

Pus is, naturally, the blandest secretion of the body ; but being con- 
fined, it corrupts, and then smells abominably. The blow, which started 
up the secretion, injured the bones forming facial sinuses. Those cavities 
open to the nostril on either side by two comparatively small flaps, slits, 
or valves. These are their only means of communication with the ex- 
ternal atmosphere ; and through these valves all the pus must flow. Is 
it surprising if such structures occasionally become clogged, till the 
accumulated secretion, or the increased breathing, or the position of the 
head, obliges the passage to give way ? 

The chances likely to result upon treatment are about equal, but the 
process is generally slow. The trephine has to be employed upon the 
facial sinus, and circular portions of bone have to be removed. Into 
the openings thus made is to be injected, by means of a pint pewter 
syringe, half a gallon of tepid water, or water heated to ninety-six de- 
grees, in which half a drachm of chloride of zinc is dissolved. The 
chloride of zinc not only destroys the fetor, but also disposes the mem- 
brane to take on a new action. 

The injection, however, only cleanses the sinuses, and the nose also 
becomes involved by the disease. It is usual to describe the turbinated 
bones, or the fragile bones situated within the nostrils, as thin osseous 





THE TREPHINE, BY MEANS OP 
WHICH A CIKCULAR PIECE OF 
BONE MAY BE REMOVED. 



INJECTING THE HEAD OF A HORSE FOR NASAL GUEET. 

Copied from a work by La Fosse. 



structures, making numerous convolutions upon themselves. They favor 
such an opinion when viewed iyi situ; but, being removed, are found to 
consist of ample sacs or bags, which the external layer concealed from 
view. These hidden spaces soon fill with pus; here it remains; the 



NASAL GLEET. 



93 



position of the head even cannot entirely dislodge it, as the head is 
seldom carried perpendicularly. Here the pus hardens or concretes, 
until by degrees the cavities are filled with a foul and solid matter. 





THE TUKBIN'ATED BONE WITniN THE NOSTRIL 
OF A HORSE AFFECTED ^ITH NASAL GLEET; 
PARTLY ABSORBED BY PRESSURE AND PARTLY 
DISTENDED BY AN ACCUSinLATIOX OF CON- 
CRETE PUS. 



PART OF A horse's HEAD WHICH HAS 
THE BONE TREPHINED SO AS TO EN- 
ABLE THE SURGEON TO EMPTY THE 
TURBINATED BONE. THE COURSE OF 
THE NERVES IS SHOWN. 



Such a store-house of disease may thus be opened and cleansed. Mark 
with chalk or charcoal the spot in a line with the infra-orbital foramen, 
and a little anterior to the third molar tooth ; the positions of both may 
be clearly ascertained by feeling externally upon the head of the living 
hoi"se. At that place cut through the skin, but no deepei*. Make a T 
incision, only reverse the letter ±. Withdraw the two flaps of skin; 
remove by means of blunt hooks any structures that conceal the bone, 
upon which last, when clear, employ the trephine. 

The side of the face being opened, insert through the opening a steel 
probe. Thrust it through the concrete pus, and strive to discover the 
most depending portion of the sac. To this spot, if possible, apply a 
hollow metallic tube, about twelve inches long. This instrument has a 
horn-shaped mouth at the blunt extremity, and a fine sharp steel saw at 
the other. The saw being fixed upon the spot indicated by the probe, 
and a few revolutions being given to the horn-shaped end, between the 




Via. 2. 

Fig. 1. The hollow metallic tube, h iving at one extremity a horn-shaped mouth for the convenience 
of inserting a gum-elastic probe, and at the other end a fine saw for cutting thrf,)Ugh the turbinated bone. 

Fig. 2. a. A gum-elastic probe to be threaded through the metallic tube, and bo forced out of the nos- 
tril. 6. A portion of string passed through the eye of the probe and forming a loop. c. The tape which 
constitutes the seton passed through the looped string. 

palms of the hands, a circular portion of the bony net-work which char- 
acterizes the turbinated structures is removed. 

Now, so soon as this is accomplished, force through the hollow instru- 



94 HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 

ment last employed an elastic probe armed with a piece of linen tape. 
The probe, being about eighteen inches long, will, by the appHcation of 
very gentle force, soon glide through the opening last made, and out of 
the nostril. The tape is, by traction, made to follow, and the ends being 
tied, a seton is established. By the daily movement of this last contri- 
vance, the concrete matter may effectually be displaced. 

This being finished, the syringe is to be daily employed ; and the cure 
may be often expedited by the following ball, which should be given 
once every twenty-four hours : — 

Balsam of copaiba Half an ounce. 

Cantharides (iu powder) Four grains. 

Cubebs A sufficiency. — Mix. 

Should this appear to affect the urinary system, immediately discon- 
tinue it. In its place, half a drachm of belladonna should be rubbed 
down in one ounce of water, and administered every hour, till all ap- 
petite is destroyed, and the drug should be discontinued after this effect 
is gained. The belladonna, however, should be exhibited only every 
fourth day. 

The lymphatic glands under the horse's jaw occasionally enlarge ; but 
as the affection is destroyed the swelling will disappear. However, the 
cure may be expedited by commodious lodging and liberal food. It 
evidently is folly to stint the provender and expect a starved nature to 
vanquish disease. 

HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 

These peculiarities admit of no pictorial illustration. Obviously, it is 
impossible to picture a sound. Both affections are known by the noises 
to which they give rise. 

Highblowing is complained of only in saddle horses. It consists of 
forcing the respiration violently through the nostrils, whereby a bur-r-r-r- 
ing kind of noise is made. This sound children are fond of imitating, 
when they play "horses;" but in the animal it is unpleasant to the 
equestrian, because by it the nostrils are cleared, and the trousers of the 
rider are often soiled. Besides, fashion at present favors a quiet steed. 
For this habit there is no remedy, except throwing up the horse for har- 
ness purposes, in which employment the habit is not generally regarded 
as objectionable. 

Wheezing is a thin, whistling noise, heard only during inspiration. It 
is provoked by some impediment to the breathing, and the cause always 
resides in the nasal chambers. It is astonishing how small an obstacle 
engenders this affection. This, like the former peculiarity, is equally 
incurable. It is easy to stop each nostril,. and thus to tell from which 



HIGHBLOWING AND WHEEZING. 95 

the noise proceeds; yet, for its removal, the affection demands a purelj' 
experimental destruction of parts, so ample, that even veterinary science 
shrinks from the attempt. 

However, to such chances the life of a horse is exposed. The indul- 
gence of a habit which adds to the animal's beauty in the eyes of the 
foot passenger, is regarded as objectionable in one position, while it is 
admired in another situation ; the advent of the smallest excrescence in 
a large cavity can deteriorate the value of a life. A loss of value entails 
loss of caste. The life descends to harder work and lessened care. The 
first step taken, the others rapidly succeed ; for it cannot be asserted 
that, as a general rule, the lower classes appear to advantage, when the 
custody of a beautiful animal is morally considered. 



._J 



CHAPTER V. 

THE THROAT — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 



SORE THROAT. 



There is, among horse owners, much dispute as to the proper mode 
of harnessing a horse. Gentility has no feeling either for itself or with 
any of the many lives by which it is surrounded ; this vice of modern 
time delights in labored imposture, and is always best pleased when it 







■VriTH AND WITHOUT THE BEAEING-KEIN. 



is mistaken for something that it is not. Gentility favors the use of a 
bearing-rein in the horse's harness. The object is to keep up the head, 
and to give to an animal with a ewe neck the aspect of one having a 
lofty crest. The artifice is very transparent ; it should deceive nobody 
save him who is foolish enough to adopt it ; but it deprives the poor 
horse of no little of its natural power. Gentlemen's coachmen complain 
of the work when their horses are driven ten miles daily, although the 
distance may be repeatedly broken by visits and by shopping. The cabs 
of London can only employ the horses which gentlemen have discarded; 
with these last vehicles, however, no bearing-reins are adopted. The 
cast-off animal that previously fagged over ten miles, when reduced to 
the rank, has to pull loads which no genteel carriage would carry, and 
(96) 



SORE THROAT. 



97 



to travel a sufficient distance to pay horse, driver, conveyance, and pro- 
prietor. In the possibility of such a contrast is, perhaps, best exemplified 
the cruelty of the bearing-rein. 

When the fine structui'e of the horse's body is regarded, and we reflect 
that a creature of so beautiful a frame is by man's will taken from the 
fields, where every bite of grass is of a different flavor — now hot and 
pungent by an admixture of the buttercup, then cool and bland by the 
marsh-mallow mingling with the morsel — where, unknown as yet to toil, 
such sustenance is sufficient for growth and idleness ; when we consider 
that an animal is suddenly snatched from such a diet, every mouthful of 
which was endowed not only with a varied taste, but with a change of 
perfume ; when we feebly conjecture how grateful this ever-varying savor 
must have rendered herbage to any being possessed of the admirable 
sense of smell with which the equine species are gifted, it can create but 
small surprise that, when taken into stables, put to exhaustiug labor, 
and day after day made to eat a stinted allowance of dry food, the same- 
ness of the diet and the change in habit should occasionally derange the 
digestion. Sore throat is, however, frequently a sign of some graver 
disorder ; the afi'ection should, therefore, be cautiously treated as a local 
malady. 

When it is present, the symptoms are a constant deglutition of saliva, 
a want of appetite, accompanied by an inability to swallow liquids. The 
pail being presented, the act of drinking is accomplished with evident 
efi"ort ; the drops are forced down by a series of jerks, which are often 
made more emphatic by an aud- 
ible accompaniment. Notwith- 
standing this labor, only a por- 
tion of the fluid enters the 
gullet, the greater part return- 
ing by the nostrils. 

So soon as this is observed, 
throw the horse up, for sore 
throat is always attended with 
weakness. Clothe fully, band- 
age the legs, place in a well- 
ventilated and amply littered 
loose box; feed upon green 
meat for a couple of days, at 
the same time always having 




A HORSE 'WITH SORE THROAT ENDEAVORING TO DRINK. 



present a pail of thick, well- 
made gruel, which should be regularly changed, thrice daily. Morning, 
noon, and night, a pottle of bruised oats, with a handful of old beans 

7 



98 SORE THROAT. 

distributed among them, should be scalded, and, when blood-warm, placed 
in the manger. 

Frequently, this is all that is required, and the disorder is well cured, 
which yields without medicine. Should the bowels prove obstinate, and 
after the second day continue constipated, a mild dose of solution of 
aloes should be administered. 

Solution of aloes Four ounces. 

Essence of aniseseed Half an ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, and give. 
This, with the diet previously recommended, is rarely required, as the 
food alone, so far as the author's experience can justify an opinion, never 
fails in relaxing the body. However, should the sore throat remain, 
dissolve half an ounce of extract of belladonna in one gallon of water. 
Hold up the head of the animal and put half a pint of this liquid into 
the mouth ; allow the fluid to be retained for thirty seconds, then take 
away the support, and the medicine will run from the lips. Repeat this 
frequently, or from six to eight times during the day. 

If the soreness of the throat should appear indisposed to heal, but, on 
the contrary, should seem inclined to spread, lose no time in resorting to 
the next preparation. Permanganate of potash, (prepared by Squires, 
chemist, of Oxford Street,) half a pint ; distilled water, one gallon ; half 
a pint to be used to cleanse the horse's mouth, in the manner just directed 
for diluted belladonna, six times daily, or — 

Chloride of zinc Three drachms. 

Extract of belladonna Half an ounce. 

Tincture of capsicums Two drachms. 

Water One gallon. 

Mix, and use as directed for the previous recipe. 
Occasionally the disease does not spread, but, spite of our best en- 
deavors, it will remain stationary. Then try the brewers' stout. Give 
one quart morning and evening. However, see that the animal has the 
beer, for men are partial to that fluid, even more than horses. Should 
no change be remarked in forty-eight hours, blister the throat. Do this 
with one part of powdered cantharides soaked for a month in seven 
parts of olive oil, adding to the whole one part by weight of camphor. 
Rub this oil, when filtered through blotting paper, into the throat for 
ten minutes in summer, and a quarter of an hour in winter. 

All the endeavors may be useless. Then cast the horse. Have ready 
some nitrate of silver, dissolved in distilled water — five grains of the 
active salt to one ounce of the fluid. Saturate in the solution a sponge 
four inches wide, tied on to the end of a stick eighteen inches long. 
Have the sponge made as dry as possible without squeezing it. Put a 



COUGH. 99 

balling iron into the mouth. Insert the sponge through the iron, and 
having pushed it down to the back of the tongue, rapidly press it against 
the side of the cavity. Be prepared for what you are about to do, and 
do it quickly. The operation stops the breathing, and calls forth the 
resistance which is natural to impending suffocation. 

The horse being released, give the following ball, in addition to the 
stout, twice each day: — 

Powdered oak bark and treacle, a sufficiency of each to form a mass. 

If none of these measures are successful, the sore throat must be the 
symptom only of some greater disorder, and all local remedies, in that 
case, must be ingulfed in the general treatment. However, it is not 
every measure which will cure every sore throat. In young horses, when 
first taken from the pure air into the contaminated atmosphere of most 
stables, such affections are -common ; but in old animals they are gen- 
erally most severe. It is a usual plan to turn a horse out to grass 
when afflicted with obstinate sore throat : this is cruel. The animal, 
whose labor we enjoyed during its health, has a positive claim on us 
for kindness and for care when overtaken by disease. Moreover, those 
who laugh at the above may become serious, when they are informed 
that animals turned to grass for sore throat are not unfrequently taken 
up virulently glandered. So closely are moral duty and self-interest 
associated, when the operation of both is rightly considered. 



COUGH. 

Cough is too often caused by unhealthy lodging. Few stables are 
perfectly drained and ventilated; the very great majority are close with 
impurity. No surprise, then, need be exhibited, if the entrance to the 
air-passages should display disease, when an animal, so naturally cleanly, 
is imprisoned in the space man is too thoughtless to keep uncontaminated. 

The larynx is the seat of cough, when the affection exists by itself, 
although the annoyance is often a symptom of some other derangement, 
and may then spring from laryngeal sympathy with some comparatively 
remote organ. It may arise from a very trivial cause, as teething; or 
it may be a sign attendant on the worst of disorders, as farcy and 
glanders. Broken wind, roaring, laryngitis, bronchitis, chronic diseases 
of the lungs, stomach, bowels, worms, etc. etc., all are attended by 
cough, which is more frequently present as a symptom than as a disease. 
Hot stables, coarse and dusty provender, rank bedding, and irregular 
work, are the general provocatives of cough, as a distinct affection. 

The name is evidently derived from the noise which constitutes the 
chief symptom of the disorder. Cough consists in spasm of all the 



100 



COUGH. 



muscles of expiration. The air is violently expelled, and an explosive 
sound is the consequence. During this spasm, the soft palate is raised, 
and the breath is allowed to pass through the mouth as well as through 
the nostrils. The horse, as a rule, being able only to respire through 
the nostrils. 

The characteristic noise is generally annoying to the master. Warmth, 
however, is popularly esteemed the cure for cold. The horse proprietor, 
therefore, thrusts his animal into an abode heated by impurity, only to 
find the annoyance aggravated. This fact is soon explained. Stables 
are not heated by fire or by water; their warmth is entirely derived from 
the fermentation of excrement. Were they well ventilated, efficiently 
built and cleanly kept, these places, having no artificial heat, must be 
cold ; but the owner loves warmth ; it feels so comfortable ; it is so 
nice! He does not inquire if it is derived from the right source; he 




THE ACT OF COUGHING. 



hates the bother of investigating Nothing can be proper if you are to 
consult medical men 1 They talk and discuss, but no good comes of 
their verbosity I And by such sayings, the horse proprietor blinds his 
judgment, permitting to continue the evil which ignorance institutes. 
Chronic cough cannot, when thus treated, amend. It continues till the 
membrane covering the larynx be thickened and morbidly sensitive ; then 
the cough is an appendage to the life, and roaring is its companion. 

For the cure of chronic cough, scald and crush the oats, damp the 
hay, and give thin gruel or linseed tea for drink. At the same time see 
that the air is pure : the human nose is a sufficiently good test of at- 
mosphere — that of the stable should not smell of horses, or of any taint 
whatever. If the ventilation is good, the drainage clear, and the bed- 
ding clean, the interior of a stable should be as odorless as any lady's 
apartment. 



LARYNGITIS. 101 

Cough, or the noise which accompanies stages of different disorders, 
will be described as the various affections of which it is a symptom are 
passed before the reader. Chronic cough, or the sound that follows a 
draught of cold water, and is heard when the horse quits the stable for 
the open air, is most distressing. It is a constant accompaniment during 
the commencement of a journey, and requires that the food and lodging 
should be looked to. Clothe warmly, and give half a pint of the follow- 
ing, in a tumbler of cold water, thrice daily : — 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down in a pint 

of cold water) One drachm. 

Tincture of squills Ten ounces. 

Tincture of ipecacuanha Eight ounces. 

Mix, 

If no beneficial change be witnessed, try the subjoined: — 

Barbadoes tar (or common tar if none other 

be at hand) Half an ounce. 

Calomel Five grains. 

Linseed meal A sufficiency. 

Mix, and give as one ball, night and morning. 

Should no improvement result, the next may be substituted : — 

Powdered aloes One drachm. 

Balsam of copaiba Three drachms. 

Cantharides Three grains. 

Common mass A sufficiency. 

Mix, and give first thing in the morning. 

A bundle of cut grass, every day, has done much good in the spring; 
so, also, has a lump of rock salt placed in the manger, during any season 
of the year. The horse, however, should be observed. If it eat the 
litter, no straw, during the daytime, should cover the stall; and, at 
night, a muzzle should be fixed upon the animal. The cough must be 
more than of a simple character which does not vanish before the pro- 
posed measures are exhausted. Cut roots, also, are beneficial during 
this disease. The hay should not be abundant, and should always be 
moistened. But, above all things, attend to the drainage and ventila- 
tion of the stable. 

LARYNGITIS. 

The common cause of this disorder is foul stables. When we see the 
animal associated with the nobleman in his pride, and linked as the will- 
ing slave of the merchant for his profit, it does seem strange that a crea- 
ture, thus connected, should be subject to disease from scant and tainted 
lodging. When we consider the subject from another point of view, and 



102 



LARYNGITIS. 



regard the eautiful frame-work, animated by the affectionate disposition 
of the horse, it sounds more than cruel, to say the most valuable and 
amiable assistant man has on earth dies neglected in age, and, during 
the vigor of its prime, encounters disease from the niggard provision 
made for its welfare. The devotion of a life ought to entitle the laborer 
to breathing space, after the labor of the day has ended. But noblemen, 
professional men, merchants, tradesmen, mechanics, all sin in this respect 
alike. The horse, when not toiling, is pushed away into the narrowest 
possible limits. The prisoner is permitted only to breathe a limited 
quantity of the air which nature has supplied in so great abundance and 
in such purity. That quantity must, from the time of close confinement, 
be frequently respired during the night ; and, when the air of the place 
has become hot and heavy, the quadruped, at the command of its attend- 
ant, quits its abode for the cold atmosphere without the walls. 

The pure air which circulates about our globe is certainly much to 
be preferred to the close interior of the stable. Yet, to the larynx, in 
some measure accustomed to the last, a sudden draught of the first is the 
almost certain source of disease. It acts as a stimulant upon a part 
rendered delicate by abiding in a morbid medium. It operates violently 
upon a structure which had almost become familiarized with impurity. 
Infllammation is the result, and laryngitis is established. 

The symptoms are broadly marked and prominently characterized. 
Dullness is present. There is a slight enlargement, which may be ob- 
served externally, and over the region of the 
larynx. The most distant attempt to handle 
the throat produces energetic resistance. The 
head is carried awkwardly, as though the neck 
were "stiff." A short cough is frequently to 
be heard almost at every inspiration. At 
the same time, there is often to be detected 
a hoarse sound, which becomes a sort of 
grunt, when the ear is placed against the 
trachea. The breath is hurried and catch- 
ing ; the pulse is full and throbbing ; while 
the nasal membrane approaches to a scarlet 
hue. 

The pulse requires the first attention. It 
must be rendered less frequent and more 
soft, by drachm doses of tincture of aconite 
root in wineglasses of water, which should 
be repeated every half hour. This is better than blood-letting, as laryn- 
gitis is to be most dreaded because of its tendency to assume the chronic 




THE STEAMlXG-nAO. 

For a full description see p. 85. 



LARYNGITIS. 103 

form. This tendency venesection favors; therefore, save under profes- 
sional advice, refrain from bleeding. 

After the pulse, the breathing next demands our care. Warmth and 
moisture are curative and pleasant to an inflamed surface. Procure the 
steaming-bag, and keep it almost constantly applied. The steaming-bag 
in laryngitis is of the first importance. A day's delay in its use may so 
aggravate the disorder as to oblige the resort to tracheotomy. 

Should the steaming apparatus appear to distress the animal, it must 
be used only for a limited period, and be reapplied after its effect has 
subsided. To aid its operation, some soft hay must be obtained. Soak 
this in boiling water and fix it upon the throat, by means of an eight- 
tailed bandage, a representation of which is given below. 




EIGHT-TAILED BANDAGE. 

A piece of stout canvas or flannel, one yard and a quarter long, and nine inches wide, ia procured. 
Three slits are to be made at either end; each should be a quarter of a yard deep. This is placed round 
the throat and the ends are tied, four in front of, and four behind, the ears. 

So soon as the animal appears capable of enduring interference, the 
appended drink should be given thrice daily. While administering it, 
watch the horse with the utmost attention. If the slightest inclination 
to cough be exhibited, immediately lower the head, or the liquid may, 
during the spasm, be drawn down the windpipe. It is far better to lose 
much physic than to kill one animal. It will, generally, be more readily 
swallowed, if made blood warm : on no account should the twitch be used 
or the jaws be forced widely asunder. The neck of the bottle should be 
inserted into the corner of the mouth, and the quadruped should be per- 
mitted to use its discretion as to the time occupied before each gulp is 
swallowed. 

Infusion of squills Two ounces. 

Infusion of ipecacuanha . , . . Two ounces. 

Infusion of aconite Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna One drachm, rubbed down with a 

pint of warm water. 
Mix, and give thrice daily. 

The lodging should be a cool, well-aired and thickly-littered loose 
box. The legs ought to be bandaged and the body fully clothed. The 
food, during the violence of the disorder, must consist only of well-made 
gruel. It may be untouched; but, nevertheless, it must be changed, 
thrice daily, for no one can tell when the appetite may return. 



104 



LARYNGITIS. 



The signs of the disease becoming worse are, increased noise in the 
breathing ; the re.spiration and pulse quicken ; the cough is suppressed ; 
the nasal membrane changes to a leaden hue; the standing becomes 
unsteady; the horse moves about; partial sweats break forth, etc. 

The symptoms of improvement are, the membrane becoming paler, or 
more natural in color; the cough growing freer or louder; a white, 
thick discharge flowing from the nostrils ; the breathing, also, is easier 
and less noisy; together with the general demonstrations of health. 

Then a little moist and succulent food may be allowed, but nothing 
harsh or fibrous should be presented. When the amendment is con- 
firmed, a seton, or, in other words, a piece of tape, may be put between 
the skin and flesh, in the place indicated by one of the next engravings. 

The seton should be moved daily, and ought to be kept in so long 
only as is necessary for the secretion of healthy pus. That object being 
obtained, cut off" one of the knots, and by pulling at the other, withdraw 
the agent. Some slight alteration is next made in the solidity or dry- 
ness of the food ; and then the neck or throat is blistered, the size and 
extent of the blister being indicated in a subjoined illustration. 





A SETON IN THE THROAT OF A HORSE. 



A HORSE WITH THE THROAT BLISTERED. 



The action of the vesicatory having subsided, the natural food may be 
returned to, only with certain cautions. The hay must be shaken out, 
to remove dust, and it should also be picked, to take away any harsh 
substances, pieces of stick, or thistle leaves. Then, the fodder being 
perfectly clean, should be sprinkled with water and allowed to remain 
soaking, at least six hours prior to its being placed before the animal. 
The oats, likewise, should be twice sifted and once examined thoroughly 
by the hand. Afterward, warm water ought to be freely poured upon 
them, and the grain be permitted to soak six hours before being put 
into the manger. 

The popular opinion declares sore throat to be always present during 
laryngitis. That notion springs from the horse always quidding, or re- 




LARYNGITIS. 105 

jecting the pellet it has masticated, while suffering under an attack of 
the last-mentioned disease. The two disorders, however, are distinct; 
likewise the remedies for each are 
separate. The quidding, during lar- 
yngitis, springs from the act of de- 
glutition, obliging the sore and in- 
flamed larnyx to rise and press the 
pellet against the roof of the fauces. 
That act occasions much pain ; hence 
the aversion to swallow solid sub- 
stances. Sore throat is, however, by 

' f J A HORSE IN THE ACT OF QCIDDING. 

no means the necessary accompani- 
ment of laryngitis. Neither are the bowels invariably confined during 
the disease. It has been known that the purgation existed in such 
energy as to require remedies. Consequently, no absolute plan of treat- 
ment can be laid down. However, depletion should be avoided to every 
extent which may be possible. The chronic form of the malady, conse- 
quent upon debility, is to be much dreaded. Effusion into the mem- 
brane, covering the rim of the larynx and its attendant roaring, is too 
frequently the result of that weakness which is produced by active 
measures. Among the lesser evils are cough, which not unfrequently 
proves but the precursor of more potent ills. Therefore, while laryngitis 
lasts, rather check the fever by gentle measures than resort to antimonials, 
niter, or the host of lowering agents. 

So soon as the case is observed, change the stable : the horse will do 
far better in the open air than in the foul atmosphere which originated 
and must aggravate the disorder. Rain, snow, or frost are more whole- 
some than the polluted warmth man's most humble slave is too often 
doomed to inhale. The roofs of many stables are terribly low ; in no 
building of this kind is the covering too high. The welfare of the horse 
seems always sacrified to the imaginary interests of its master. Thus, 
above the stable is built a loft for the hay and a residence for the groom. 
To save expense, the building is raised as small a distance from the 
ground as possible. The height of modern buildings would be by no 
means extravagant, were an entire stable of ordinary dimensions left free 
for a single quadruped to breathe in. A puerile parsimony, however, 
denies the huge lungs of the animal the only food life cannot do without, 
for even a short space. Disease and death consequently soon waste 
treble the money ample accommodation would not have consumed. 
Ignorance is the most expensive quality a proprietor of horse-flesh can 
indulge ; for nature invariably refuses to be made subject to man's 
convenience. 



106 ROARING. 



ROARING. 



A horse is said to roar when, during progression, he emits any unnatural 
sound. The noise is not exactlj' of the same intensity in any two animals. 
Some creatures roar so loud as to attract attention from the foot pas- 
sengers; others have so trivial a defect in this particular, that it can 
only be detected after a breathing gallop. In all, however, it materially 
lessens the value. 

It is usual to cough horses suspected of being roarers ; this, however, 
is wrong. The constant pinching of the larynx may induce the affection. 
The cough of a confirmed roarer, however, is peculiar. It consist of a 
double effort ; a spasmodic expulsion of the air, followed by a deep and 
audible inspiration. 

The best mode of detecting a roarer, where exercise is forbidden 
or impossible, is to get a stick and to quietly approach the suspected 
animal. Having reached the head, take a short hold of the halter, and 
all at once display the weapon, at the same time making a pretense as 
though about to use it violently upon the abdomen. The horse in alarm 
will run toward the manger, and, if a roarer, the action will be accom- 
panied by an audible grunt. This proof, taken with the refusal to allow 
the horse to be tried, is generally conclusive ; though by itself the tCvSt 
is by no means satisfactory. Many horses that are not roarers will 
sometimes grunt under the emotion of fear. 

Of roaring there are two kinds, acute and chronic. Acute roaring 
is that which is merely symptomatic of a disease. It may be produced 
by the tumor of strangles compressing the larynx ; by the impediment, 
in choking, being situated so high up as to interfere with the breathing ; 
and by many other causes. In these cases remove the excitant, and the 
effect will immediately cease. Acute roaring is, therefore, a very trivial 
affair, excepting so far as it indicates the severity of the complaint, 
which generates the affection. 

Chronic roaring is a very different business. This mostly results from 
the abuse to which a generous animal is subject, during the early period 
of its domestication. A carriage horse may be serviceable, and even 
dashing, when the twentieth year has passed ; but the vast majority of 
these animals perish before maturity is reached. A handsome pair of 
Cleveland bays pull some fashionable lady round the park, before their 
bones are formed or the teeth perfected. The animals have also to take 
their mistress the circle of morning calls, and to be smartly stopped short 
at the door of every house she visits, while their sinews are still soft and 
yielding. They have to "go faster," when their mistress is in a hurry, 
and have to wait her pleasure when she is disposed to linger. They 



ROARING. 



lot 



have to do all this, while their bodies are distorted by the bearing-rein ; 
the balance of their frames being violently made to conform to the 
capricious notions of modern fashion. For the illustration of this sub- 
ject, an animal, with a head rather well put on, has been chosen. The 
engraving represents a horse undergoing the torture of the bearing-rein. 
The next illustration exhibits the horse carrying its head as it would, 
were it free to exercise a choice. The reader is not asked which delinea- 
tion looks the best. Any appeal to his taste is forborne, because the 
generality of eyes are perverted by the dictates of custom. 





A H0R8E S HEAD PULLED UP BY THE 
BEARING-REIN. 



A horse's head without the BEARING-REIN. 



But he is asked to inspect the representations. Let him look well 
and long at them ; then declare which appears most at ease. Let his 
heart instruct his eyes, and, to its teaching, let him subject his liking; 
for there can be no beauty where constraint is perceptible. In the most 
vigorous of the ancient statuary repose may be absent, the muscles may 
be strained and the attitude violent ; still all the parts balance. "Yes," 
it may be replied, "but in the Elgin marbles the horses' heads are thrown 
back." So they are ; but not fixed back. The horses are ridden without 
bridles. The elevation of the head, therefore, denotes spirit, and repre- 
sents no more than the action of a moment. The modern carriage 
horse, whether galloping, trotting, or standing still, always has the head 
in one attitude, save when the muzzle is thrown into the air to ease, for 
an instant, the pained angles of the mouth, inhumanly tugged at by the 
bearing-rein. 

Which of the foregoing engravings looks most at ease ? Does not 
the fashionable horse appear suffering constraint and torture ? The face 
is disguised and concealed by the harness ; but enough is left visible to 
suggest the agony compulsion inflicts. "Pride," says the proverb, "has 
no feeling." Therefoi'e, no expectation is formed of any appeal to the 
fashionable circles ; but by the ignorance of the public is this barbarity 



108 



ROARING. 



licensed. Were the mass properly informed, the hooting of the popu- 
lace would soon drive fashion into a more humane usage. 





THE HEALTHY LARYNX. 

1. The thyro-hyordeus muscle. 

2. The ciicothyioideus muscle. 

3. The aiytenoideus muscle. 

i. The crico-arytenoideus posticus muscle. 
a. a. The thyroid bone. 

A. The epiglottis (a cartilage.) 

B. The arytenoid cartilages. 

C. The thyroid cartilage. 

D. The cricoid cartilage. 

E. E. E. The commencement of the trachea. 



THE EFFECT PRODUCED BY THE BEARING-REIN. 

a. The healthy arytenoideus muscle. 

b. The healthy crico-artenoideus posticus muscle. 

A. The arytenoideus muscle paralyzed and par- 

tially absorbed by the constant use of the 
bearing-rein. 

B. The crico-arytenoideus posticus muscle ren- 

dered pallid, and deprived of power by the 
use of the bearing rein. 



The left engraving represents the larynx in a state of health. The 
larynx is the most sensitive organ in the body. If a crumb of bread, a 
particle of salt, or a drop of water "go the wrong way," or enter the 
larynx, everybody has felt the convulsive coughing that immediately 
ensues. Yet this larynx, so exquisitively sensitive, and so resentful of 
the lightest touch, is forced out of place and shape by the adoption of 
the bearing-rein. The whole weight of the head is made to press against 
the larynx; the action of the part is stopped; certain muscles are thrown 
out of use. Now, doom a part to constant rest, and paralysis soon 
results. This is exactly what follows the often long stoppage of that 
freedom which is necessary to the health of any structure. Certain of 
the muscles are absorbed; they lose their bulk and part with their color; 
their function is destroyed : the consequence is, the horse becomes a 
confirmed and an incurable roarer. 

So fearful a result, as a life of anguish to any creature, might be 
thought sufficient to amend a triviality like the whim of fashion. Still, 
sad as that consequence is, it is not all which this folly engenders. 

The larynx, sensitive and delicately constructed, is formed upon dif- 
ferent pieces of cartilage. This substance is slowly organized and very 
yielding. The structures of the youthful horse's frame are not con- 



ROARING. 



109 




THE TKArHEA AM) LARYNX DIS- 
TORTED THROUGH THE CONSTANT 
USE OF THE BEARING -REIX. 



firmed All are soft, especially a substance naturally somi-elastic. The 
bearing-rein forces the head upon the neck ; the larynx thereby is com- 
pressed. It assumes strange forms, when it is forced from its natural 
position. As maturity arrives, the various 
structures harden. Then distortion of the 
larynx becomes fixed. This organ has been 
taken from the bodies of old animals, of the 
shape here depicted. The morbid specimen, 
from which the following was copied, is, un- 
fortunately, too common, as the late Professor 
Sewell clearly demonstrated. But, what a 
price is this to pay for fashion — to sit for 
hours behind a noble creature, whose exer- 
tions are adding to our pleasure, and at the 
same time to be entailing deformity upon the 
animal ! Physical soundness is of far more 
importance to the horse than to the human 
being. The value of the quadruped, its man- 
ner of life, its kind of treatment, the sufficiency of its food, and the com- 
parative comfort of its lodging, — all are regulated by the soundness of 
its body. 

There are those who assert roaring is no injury to the powers of a 
horse. Certain animals, to be sure, can hunt and keep a good pace, 
although thus afflicted; but Nimrod (as the well-known, late sporting 
writer called himself) soon found out to his cost that all roarers were 
not fit to ride across country. The writer has seen a sailor, deprived of 
one leg, dance a hornpipe with wonderful agility; but it would be folly, 
therefore, to say sailors were not injured as dancers by the loss of a 
limb. That which impedes the free passage of air to the lungs must be 
a rather serious detriment to exertion. The 
cab proprietors of London, who cannot 
afford to purchase very sound animals, and 
then to let them out at so much per day to 
strange drivers, have discovered a way to 
prevent the noise generally made by roarers. 
This end is attained by placing a pad under 
a portion of the harness. In the following 
engraving this pad is indicated by a white 
mark; though in reality it is so colored as 
to blend with the coat of the horse. It 

presses upon the nostrils near to their openings, and by thus limiting 
the extent of their expansion, by controlling the space through which 




THE cabman's KEMEPT FOR ROARING. 



110 CHOKING. 

the air haa to pass, it also commands the quantity of atmosphei'e which 
is inspired. Thus the bulk of air is regulated to the diminution of the 
respiratory organs. The horse breathes freer, and no noise is made 
during the act. Yet, although such a contrivance may do very well for 
a London cab, the pace of which is regulated by Act of Parliament, it 
evidently is unsuited to the field, where everything depends on the 
capacity of the lungs, and nothing upon the sound made during in- 
spiration. 

Other causes are mentioned by different writers as pi'ovocatives of 
roaring, besides tight reining. Some of these, like thickening and ulcer- 
ation of the membrane lining the larynx, are the after consequences 
of acute disease, and, as such, are to be prevented only by judicious 
treatment during the existence of the primary disorder. Among other 
causes, bands of coagulable lymph in the trachea, and congenital de- 
formity, are too rare to deserve the attention they have received. 

There is one consolation, however, connected with the subject which 
breeders may accept with confidence. Roaring is not necessarily heredi- 
tary. There is, moreover, a caution, which, associated with roaring, 
may be given to purchasers. When trying a horse at the top of its 
speed, never hold in the reins tightly. By so doing, you draw the head 
upon the neck, compress the larynx, and may make almost any animal, 
however sound, "roar like a bull." Rather wait till the animal has 
stopped. Then dismount, place your ear against the windpipe, and, if 
the horse is a roarer, the deep inspirations necessary to tranquilize the 
system will inform you plainly enough of the fact. 

CHOKING. 

Gentlemen have something to answer for, when they employ the know- 
ing and the ignorant as grooms about their stables. The writer wishes 
women would undertake to tend on horses. The animal requires no 
service that the female strength would not be equal to, while the female 
mind would soon comprehend and appreciate the gentleness of the quad- 
ruped. The timidity of the equine race would meet with womanly sym- 
pathy; and no one can have observed the attachments which spring up 
between the female and domesticated creatures, but must in heart have 
confessed that the care of the stable was, as much as the watching of 
the sick-room, especially woman's province. 

The foolish fellows, now congregated about a mews, are constantly 
longing for something which shall magically do their work for them. 
They have a firm belief in charms and an utter hatred of labor. They 
sigh for some spell which shall marvelously improve the appearance of 



CHOKING. Ill 

their master's property without exertion on their parts. Their pride 
centers in the blooming coats of their charges. They have a large con- 
fidence in all sorts of condition balls. Such secrets constitute the mys- 
tery of their craft. As a general rule, the faith is proportioned to the 
strength of the ingredient. Arsenic is, by the lower order of stable 
keepers, contemplated with positive love. Vitriol, in the uneducated 
groom, engenders the warmth of passion. Niter breeds delight; and 
confidence is, by the better sort of horse attendants, bestowed on any 
filth or trash. Raw tobacco has some repute; but the ashes of the 
weed, collected and wrapped in several papers, are much more esteemed 
in the generality of stables. Half a pint of human urine, forced down 
the cleanly throat of the horse, is not an unfrequent benefit bestowed 
upon the animal; but, happily, this specific is recognized only by the 
more learned of the class. Of all things, however, to amend condition, 
perhaps, a raw egg driven into the horse's oesophagus, before any food 
has been consumed, may be honored by the most universal regard. 

Nevertheless, be the condition-worker what it may, the groom gen- 
erally keeps his own counsel. Arsenic and vitriol are commonly favorites 
with agricultural carters, who poison their horses with the intention of 
over-much kindness. Tobacco ashes and eggs are popular with the 
more refined of the order. Both classes, however, are too self-confident 
and too ignorant to have any fear of consequences. "With the groom, 
the egg is thrust into the fasting gullet. Its size excites the contracti- 
bility of the muscular fiber ; the substance is soon grasped by the living 
tube with spasmodic tenacity. There it is retained. The symptoms con- 
sequent upon choking are soon exhibited ; but the groom looks on un- 
moved. At first, he thinks the evidence of agony is proof in favor of his 
charm ; subsequently he resolves, with the cunning of ignorance, " not 
to split upon hisself." 

Now, in a case of this description, never depend upon any report you 
may have received. Recollect choking may spring from two opposite 
causes. The symptoms may result from disease, as strangles ; or they 
may arise from any tumor pressing against the respiratory channel. In 
that instance, however, remove the cause, and the effect will cease. Of 
genuine choking, during health, there remain two sorts : the high and 
the low choke. Thus, if the substance has become fixed in the pharynx, 
or has only passed six inches down the oesophagus, the symptoms are 
urgent. The remedy must be at hand, else the life is quickly lost. 

In the high choke the head is raised ; saliva bedews the lips ; a dis- 
charge soils the nostrils; the eyes are inflamed and watery; the coun- 
tenance is haggard ; the breathing audible ; the muscles of the neck are 
tetanic ; the flanks heave ; the body is in constant motion ; the fore legs 



112 



CHOKING, 



paw and stamp ; the hind legs crouch and dance ; perspiration breaks 
forth ; every movement expresses agony : vi^herefore, if relief be not 
quickly afforded, the horse falls and dies of suffocation. 



/i.i J,, 




S^'^'^^^c 



THE BIOH CHOKE. 



The veterinary surgeon should attend such a case, prepared to perform 
tracheotomy, which sometimes is absolutely necessary, before anything 
intended to remove the obstruction can be attempted. The operation, 
in this case, is designed to be no more than temporary ; therefore, the 
use of Mr. Gowing's tracheotomy tube is here decidedly in its proper 
place. It can be inserted ; a few moments after it can be removed, and 
leave behind no loss of substance to be supplied or to retard recovery. 

The balling-iron, after tracheotomy is accomplished, should be fixed 
in the mouth and the hand then introduced. Sometimes the impacted 
substance can be felt, but cannot be grasped. In this last case, a rough 




AN EXTEMPORIZED HOOK TO RELIEVE HIGH CHOKING. 



hook is to be extemporized out of any wire which may be at hand. It 
should be of the shape indicated in the preceding engraving, and of suf- 
ficient length to reach behind the obstruction. The hook is to be gently 
worked into its situation, and, with a sudden jerk, the foreign body is to 
be removed from the oesophagus. 

Occasionally, the substance is so firmly embraced as not to permit any 
instrument to pass beside it. Sulphuric ether must then be inhaled, in 
the hope of thus overcoming the spasm. The ether, however, does not 



CHOKING. 113 

in every instance prove successfnl ; and, as an egg, probably, alone could 
be of sufficient size to resist all the measures adopted for its removal, a 
large darning-needle must then be procured. That, being first armed 
with a piece of strong twine, must be driven through the skin and made 
to enter the globular impactment. There is no danger of injuring nerves 
or arteries while doing this ; all vessels are pushed on one side by the 
enlargement, caused by the choking substance. The integrity of the 
shell being destroyed, the egg may easily be broken by external pressure. 
Another plan proposed, is to insert a fine trocar, and draw off the con- 
tents of the egg. Either method would answer, but it is always well 
to wound the lining membrane of the oesophagus as little as may be 
possible. 

The employment of the cow probang has been advocated ; the egg 
to be broken, if this recommendation is adopted, by the employment of 
the whalebone stilet. The oesophagus of the cow and horse, however, 
are of such different construction, that he must be a very bold or a very 
ignorant person who dare employ an instrument made for the first, to 
remove an obstruction within the gullet of the last. 




THE COW PROBANG, USED TO BREAK AN EGO. 



An old and hardened ball may provoke this accident ; but then the 
impactment is not complete, because such substances are seldom of a 
perfect round. The sides are opened, and the obstruction is, therefore, 
more easily removed. Horses are not like the bovine race, so greedy as 
to swallow potatoes or small turnips, without mastication. Besides, 
man's favorite is more under domestication, and, therefore, less exposed 
to such accidents. 

When the choking occurs low down, or within the thoracic portion of 
the oesophagus, the symptoms are less urgent. The animal ceases to 
feed. If water is attempted to be swallowed, it returns by the nostrils. 
The countenance expresses anguish; but the head is not held erect, 
neither are the muscles of the neck spasmodically contracted. Saliva 
flows from the mouth, and a copious discharge runs from the nose. The 
breathing is labored ; but it is seldom noisy. The back is roached, the 
flanks tucked up, and the horse often stands as if desirous of elevating 
the quarters. 

After two or three days, (for the low choke may continue such a 
period,) the accumulation of wind within the abdomen becomes excessive ; 

8 



114 



CHOKING. 



the breathing quickens ; the pulse fails, and the animal (if not relieved) 
perishes from suffocation, induced by tympanitis. 

For low choke more time than nature allows, when the impediment is 
situated near the mouth, may be occupied. No hurry nor any speedy 
remedy is required. Give oil, by the quarter of a pint, every hour. In 
the intermediate half hours give strong antispasmodics, using the horse 
probang after every dose of the latter. Sulphuric ether, two ounces ; 
laudanum, two ounces; water, half a pint, will constitute the proper 
drench. Should the whole be returned, chloroform must be administered, 
by inhalation, till total insensibility results. Then, the head being ex- 
tended, the probang should be introduced, and gentle but steady pressure 
made to force the obstruction onward. If success comes early, it is easily 
welcomed ; but it is well not to expect success before the expiration of 
twenty minutes. When movement is felt, do not increase the force. 




THE LOW CHOKE. 



Maintain a steady pressure, never relaxing and never augmenting the 
power exerted. Drive the substance slowly before you, but do not, by 
sudden energy, risk either the provocation of spasmodic action or a 
rupture of the oesophagus. 

Before using the probang, always calculate the length of the whale- 
bone, so as to judge when the end has nearly entered the stomach. It 
is always well, if possible, to avoid forcing the end of the probang through 
the cardiac opening, as the termination of the oesophagus is called. The 
muscular fibers here are strongly developed, and are formed to resist the 
passage of any substance out of the stomach. To be sure, the animal is 
under the influence of chloroform ; but that powerful agent seems more 
particularly to exert its action upon the voluntary muscles ; whereas, the 
cardiac orifice is guarded by white, involuntary muscular fiber. 



RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 115 

A few days subsequent to the removal of the obstruction, no matter 
where it may have been situated, feed on soft-boiled food — not bran 
mashes; and in case of roots not being at hand, sustain the life with 
smoothly-made gruel. Let the animal be observed, when watered. 
Should the liquid be returned by the nostrils, injury to the lining mem- 
brane of the oesophagus is indicated ; stricture may then be anticipated. 
Though it be not probable that any medicine will now be beneficial, 
nevertheless, as an experiment, administer, thrice daily, four ounces of 
water in which four grains of chloride of zinc have been dissolved. 

Such is a true and brief history of the terrible mishaps that result 
from the mingled knowingness and ignorance which characterize the 
majority of grooms. A good or simple lad would be sadly out of place 
in a modern stable, though the writer should recommend the employment 
of such to become more general. The tricks and arts of professed grooms 
are all worthless or injurious. To such men, however, is the timid horse 
inti'usted ; and so much are our minds enslaved by custom, that the hint 
only of employing women in the stable will, no doubt, be received with 
general indignation. Let us, however, endeavor to view the matter 
without prejudice. Women work in the fields ; women fill the situations 
of men as domestic servants ; women carry heavy loads ; women, on the 
continent, perform the duties of men ; women commonly tend an animal 
of inferior intelligence, the cow ; women are subordinate to men only 
where strength is concerned. In the stable no strength is required. 
Courage, even, is out of place there. Gentleness is the only quality im- 
perative, and gentleness so habitual that it never will alarm timidity. 
This attribute seems to reside in the feminine mind ; and, however opposed 
it may be to habit, the author cannot but lament the barrier which pre- 
vents the horse from becoming known to its natural attendant. 

RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

The gullet or oesophagus of the horse is, perhaps, the most compact 
and delicate structure in a beautiful body. Its mucous lining membrane is 
thrown into minute folds, thereby announcing to the studious anatomist 
the degree of extension the tube was designed to endure. Its exterior is 
enveloped by a large mass of cellular tissue, by which means the inde- 
pendence of its motion is secured ; it will permit of less violence than 
almost any other part. Small as its channel and delicate as its lining 
membrane are, the tube is amply large and strong enough for a creature 
which masticates long before it deglutates once, and which is by nature 
forbidden to regurgitate. 

However, stable-men seek not to understand but love to master the 



116 RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

quadruped intrusted to their charge. The butt-end of a carter's whip is 
a favorite resort with these people, whether serving some farmer or 
acting as grooms to some lord. When any mighty specific happens to 
stick in its passage to the stomach, the butt-end of the whip is employed 
to drive the obstinate charm onward. Should the obstruction be situated 
low down, the whip is neither small enough nor pliable enough to touch 
the offending matter. Should the choking mass be lodged high up, by 
compelling it beyond the reach of human hand, positive injury is done, 
and ultimate relief is rendered very problematical indeed ; however, 
ignorance is not often to be deterred by difficulties. As the passage 
narrows, greater violence is resorted to ; the men push and strive till at 
last the whip moves onward, and the stable-men congratulate each other 
upon " all being right at last." 

When the whip seemed to yield, something more than the obstruction 
gave way ; the walls of the canal were ruptured ; an almost inevitable 
death then awaits the unfortunate animal. The food is rejected ; drink 
is refused ; the creature stands motionless, the picture of horror ; it 
seems to comprehend and to await its approaching fate. The neck 
begins to swell ; the swelling creeps on till it invests the entire body. 
Gas has found entrance into the cellular tissue, through the divided 
gullet. Death at last ensues, because the inflation impedes the vital 
functions, and, being corruptive, is incompatible with the preservation 
of living organism. 

More often, however, the whip only tears the internal membrane ; the 

obstruction has been dislodged and removed, but a worse evil has been 

created. The horse for a time refuses food, 

The dilated oesophagus or sac and the auxious master wonders "what can be 

superior to the stricture. i » i i • 

the matter !" At last the pain may cease, the 
appetite return, for nature may strive to repair 
the damage. The whip usually tears a flap 
of membrane, which, obedient to the laws of 
gravity, hangs pendant within the oesophagus. 
Our common parent, however, does not, after the 
human pattern, repair the evil which man induces. 
The stricture. |||f^ She has no mortal hand wherewith to restore 

the rent membrane to its place. The sides of 
the wound, however, strive to unite, and by the 

The tube of its natural si.e. ^atC whcn this jUUCtioU is accomplished, the 

sTEicTURE OF THE (EsoiHAQus. mucous membrauc being inelastic, the magni- 
tude of the canal is seriously diminished. Na- 
ture seems to feel that the chief strain of deglutition will be upon this 
lessened spot, which, therefore, she endeavors to support and strengthen. 




RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 



in 



Lymph is deposited about the place, till ultimately a firm and solid 
stricture is formed. 

This, however, though bad enough, is not the worst. Lymph, after a 
time, has a tendency to contract. With the diminution of the external 
ring, of course the internal canal decreases ; it is strained at every 
meal ; but straining only provokes its contractive power, till at length 
hardly the best comminuted morsel could pass the opening. Such, how- 
ever, rarely enters the strictured oesophagus; the difficulty of deglutition 
renders it impossible for the appetite to be appeased. No sooner is the 
food placed before the animal than, because of hunger, induced by pro- 
longed starvation, it is bolted, almost unprepared by mastication and 
insalivation. Nourishment in that state cannot pass the stricture ; it 
lodges above the contraction; still, hunger impels the horse to eat on. 
It does so till the oesophagus becomes distended. Gullets have been 
taken from animals, stretched till they are thinner than the paper upon 
which this book is printed, and so much enlarged as to admit a boy's 
clenched fist. 

After the affection reaches this stage, the swollen oesophagus, when 
loaded, presses upon the trachea and 
larynx so severely as materially to im- 
pede the breathing, and it is at this period 
that instinct develops a strange artifice. 
The horse has no power to vomit; the 
fibers of the healthy oesophagus impel 
but in one direction ; still, no sooner has 
the gullet become distended than the 
impaired breathing creates a desire to 
remove the obstruction. The chin is 
lowered; the crest is thus curved to the 
utmost, when the muscles of the neck are 
brought into violent action, and the im- 
pacted provender is shot back through 
the mouth and nostrils. 

This description reads bad enough, but 
regard for veracity obliges the statement 

that is not yet complete. Hunger, when excessive, causes the stomach 
to pour forth its acid secretion ; this effect is produced by the sight of 
provender ; but the gastric juice not being given food to act upon, passes 
into the intestines ; there it provokes the most intense spasm ; so that it 
is common to see the hind legs raised to violently strike the aching belly, 
while the labored breathing announces that abstinence from any kind of 
exertion has become a primary necessity of life. 




THE HORSE ENDEAVORING TO CAST UP THE 
PROVENDER WITH WHICH THE SAC OF A 
STRICTURED (ESOPHAGUS IS LOADED. 



118 RUPTURE AND STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

The only palliative for so pitiable a condition is carefully-prepared 
food — gruel and such substances given in small quantities at a time. 
The horse, however, when it requires such support, generally has been 
so much lowered by disease as not to be worth its ordinary keep. No 
one cares merely to prolong the equine life ; the animal is only permitted 
to live because of the profit man can make out of its labor ; yet, for the 
full meanness of the last motive, let the horse proprietor seek a better 
class of servants for his grooms. Let him abolish the stunted, long- 
faced, narrow-headed compounds of mischief and of treachery which are 
now the common inhabitants of every mews. Before doing so, however, 
he must amend himself; he must be prepared to teach by example; the 
present groom only fulfills the wishes and panders to the pride of the 
master. Were a higher order of stable-men desired, the longing could 
easily be supplied ; but fashion pronounces in favor of the present, natty 
affectations, and men with more solid qualities naturally refuse to compete 
in an arena so unworthily occupied. 

Before quitting this subject, a caution must be given against all pro- 
bangs as at present made. The cow probang is evidently unsuited to 
the equine gullet. The horse instrument has the bell of the cow probang 
attached to a piece of whalebone ; when a narrow channel is to be 
entered, the bulk of the leading substance is of all importance. That 
which goes in front, not that which lies behind, has then to be con- 
sidered ; so, in spite of the whalebone, the present horse probang is 
nothing more than the cow instrument in disguise. 

The probang intended for the horse should be formed like that era- 
ployed upon the human subject. It should consist of a long slip of fine 
whalebone, having a sponge fixed to one end ; when required, the sponge 
should be thoroughly saturated in water or in oil, (according to the cir- 
cumstances,) then squeezed dry and forced down the oesophagus. The 

The horse probang as at the present made. 



That which should bo employed. 

THE HORSE PROBANO, AS IT IS AND AS IT OUGHT TO BE. 

material would adapt itself to every cavity, would fill the largest, but 
could not harm the smallest; would as effectually remove every obstruc- 
tion, but would not be so difficult to retract, if the head should by 
accident pass the cardiac orifice. 



BRONCHOCELE. ng 



BRONCHOCELE. 

This disease, which entails much suffering upon the human species, 
under the name of "goitre," is, in the horse, a very trivial affair. The 
cause of its orign has not yet been made plain. It is, however, a sign 
that nature suffers in some essential particular. In the sunless depths 
of the valleys about the Alps, it is, with man, a frightful deformity. 
May not the dark and close stables, in which horses too often are con- 
fined, have something to do with its production in these animals ? 

It is an enlargement of a substance anatomically called the thyroid 
gland. This body resides upon the larynx, immediately under the jaw. 
It is occasionally as large as a hen's egg, but seldom is of greater 
magnitude. Its natural size is that of half a chestnut. The enlarge- 
ment appears to occasion no inconvenience, and is only objected to 
because horsemen consider it unsightly. Purchasers, moreover, are 
fastidious about buying an animal which exhibits any unusual develop- 
ment. 

It, however, generally yields to treatment, and the animal need not be 
taken from gentle work during the time occupied by the cure. Let the 
following drink be given night and morning : — 

Iodide of potassium Half a drachm. 

Liquor polassie One drachm. 

Distilled water Half a pint. 

At the periods stated for giving the medicine, rub into the enlarge- 
ment a portion of the annexed ointment. Remember, any of the un- 
guent being left upon the hair is proof positive that sufficient friction 
has not been employed. The ointment can in no way benefit the 
external covering. The object of friction is to get the ointment ab- 
sorbed. This it effects by promoting warmth, and thereby inducing 
dryness, both of which stimulate the pores of the skin to take up outward 
moisture. 

When this is being accomplished, there is no necessity for extraor- 
dinary care or excessive attention. The tumor, which constitutes 
bronchocele, is certainly not endowed with morbid sensibility. Suf- 
ficient force for the purpose in view, therefore, may be safely exerted ; 
but, at the same time, it is always well, where horses are concerned, 
to discard anything approaching to violence. Consequently, exercise a 
proper discretion when employing the following ointment : — 

Iodide of lead One drachm. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 



120 



BRONCHOCELE. 



Supposing the tumor to be present only upon one side, a piece of the 
ointment as large as a hazelnut will be sufficient, if well rubbed in 
each time. Twice the quantity will be necessary when the swelling 




A HOESE •WITH BRONCHOCELE. 



is to be seen upon both sides of the neck ; and should the part become 
sore, of course all application must be stopped for the time necessarily 
occupied by the healing process. 



_J 



CHAPTER VL 

THE CHEST AND ITS CONTENTS THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



CONGESTION IN THE FIELD. 

It is a dangerous thing to trust a dumb animal to the guidance of an 
ignorant man ; such a person is dangerous because he does not understand 
that certain preparation adapts vitality to particular usages. A racer 
may be a mysterious creature, about which he dares to think nothing, 




A HORSE PROSTRATE FROM BEING OVERRIDDEN. 



.V ^ 



excepting that it is a horse, very beautiful and very fleet ; a hunter, 
in his notion, is any horse running after hounds ; he takes the stable 
favorite out for a morning canter, crosses the hunt, and immediately, 
with no thought of harm, joins the field. For the first few acres a very 
ungentlemanly person may, in a very gruff voice, request him to " hold 
hard and not to ride over the dogs;" but the first three fields passed, 
there is no need of such a caution. The horse, with that perfect aban- 
donment of self which makes its will its master's choice, and converts 
the rider's pleasure into its delight, strains every nerve ; its head is pro- 
truded and its legs outstretched; it sti'uggles hard, but can make no 

(121; 



122 CONGESTION IN THE FIE>D. 

way. "Voice, whip, and spur by turns urge the animal onward, but it has 
been taken suddenly from its uses ; the horse thinks not of that, it only 
seeks to gratify the being who for a time has become its ruler. To his 
amusement it devotes itself, and obedient to this idea, it runs, or en- 
deavors to run, till its limbs are with difficulty lifted from the ground ; 
it reels, it falls, and the would-be huntsman stands over a prostrate 
steed. 

The horse has congestion of the lungs. Yes ; but what caused it ? 
Over-exertion, accompanied by a consequent absence of nervous energy. 
The sensibility of the larynx, feeling the exhaustion before the body 
appreciated it, inclined inward ; they prevented the atmosphere from 
oxygenating the blood. Deficient oxygen causes the frame, spite of 
violent exertion, to feel clammy cold. The brain being supplied with 
impure blood, produces temporary insensibility. Vitality seems to be 
contesting with death. 

Now, were a fleam, and some one who understood how to use it, at 
hand, venesection might do good ; neither are to be found ; the animal 
after some time rises, and with difficulty is led to shelter. Country 
opinions always incline to stimulants ; gin and pepper is, in all rural 
districts, a potent horse physic. A dose is administered ; the horse 
seems to amend ; another and another jorum is poured down the animal's 
throat. After the third potion it is clear to all the horse is becoming 
worse. Bloody water is soon blown from the nostrils ; partial sweats 
break forth ; the eye assumes a gray appearance ; all at once the depart- 
ing life appears to rally ; the animal seems to walk with a firmer step ; 
but just as this fact has been observed, it falls, and almost without a 
struggle expires. 

Such is a lamentable instance of the general ignorance which prevails 
concerning horses. Firmly as nature may have united man and horse, 
gentility would dissever them ; it is not polite in society to speak of 
man's most patient companion and most faithful slave. Gentility con- 
descends to use animals, but loves to prate only of frivolity. The educa- 
tion of the young, which should be directed by the conversation of the 
matured, is thus neglected ; boys, London boys especially, regard the 
stable as a place to be avoided ; they view horses, not as the gentlest of 
created beings, but as creatures it were a breach of good manners to 
speak of "before ladies." They learn to consider these animals and all 
that concerns them, as subjects to be forgotten the instant " society is 
entered." From the ignorance thus fostered, and from the fashion which 
prefers to talk about trifles to conversing of those matters which consti- 
tute the facts of reality and involve the instruction of the youthful, springs 
that mishap which has been described as congestion of the lungs. 



CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 123 

A noble animal is thus, by prejudice, denied the benefit which would 
otherwise result from social opinion. Woman, whose gentleness fits her 
for the companionship of the timid horse, is, as by design, kept in per- 
fect ignorance of her lawful possession. The creature is separated even 
from those benefits which would result from the expression of feminine 
sentiment. A being that seeks protection, that with a submission 
amounting to a perfect denial of self, entreats for shelter and begs to 
serve, is handed over to the harshest order of the human race. Much 
more than this, it is transferred to the custody of the ignorant, who view 
its nature as requiring to be subdued, and think they display spirit 
when they treat the most fearful of living creatures as though it were a 
carnivorous brute bent upon ravening and destroying. 

When a horse sinks in the field, bleed if possible ; should the neces- 
sary means not be at hand, a vein may be punctured with a knife, and 
every vein in the body is then turgid with congestion. There is no dif- 
ficulty of seeing where to puncture, and a pint taken at this time does 
more good than a gallon abstracted one hour subsequently. Then cover 
the body ; pull off your own coat of there be any want of clothing ; you 
caused the mischief and should not heed personal nicety when reparation 
is possible. Lead quickly but gently to the nearest stable ; there heap hot 
rugs upon the body ; the desire is to relieve the lungs by determining the 
blood to the surface ; bandage the legs and cover the neck ; warm the stable 
either with fire or by means of tubs full of boiling water. This being 
done, if a chemist lives in the neighborhood, procure one ounce of ether 
and half an once of laudanum, which dose, in rather more than half a 
pint of water, should be given, without any noise or bustle, every half 
hour. Should no chemist be near, take two tablespoonfuls of turpentine, 
which beat up with the yolk of an egg, and give in half a pint of water. 
Place a pailful of cold gruel within easy reach of the horse, and see that 
there is an ample bed under it. These things being done, do not leave 
the place before the fate of the horse is determined, which it invariably 
is before thirty hours have expired ; for the proprietor's presence is the 
only surety that orders are obeyed, where horses and the uninstructed 
are concerned. 

CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 

This affection mostly attacks debilitated or fat horses. These creatures 
are driven far in a four-wheeled carriage, heavily laden. One animal, of 
small size, has to drag an entire family. Else, the quadruped has to 
journey fast to avoid a shower of rain. The horse is flogged onward. 
A horse, whose motions are quickened by the lash, is not likely to be 



124 



CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 



very closely observed. It is much more probable the speed will be 
blamed as laziness, than the laboring life be pitied for exhaustion. Yet, 
when congestion follows, it is proof positive that the powers of nature 
were overtaxed. 

The wretched slave, after the distance is accomplished, is taken from 
the shafts and led into the stable ; it is hardly tied to the manger before 
a sickening sensation seizes on the body. The head hangs down ; the 
furnished rack and manger are not glanced at. This alarms the groom's 
prejudices. At length the man imagines it must be thirst which prevents 
his charge from eating. The attendant hastens for water, but on his 
return he finds the horse blowing ; that is, panting or breathing quickly. 




CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 



This symptom, which only denotes exhaustion, used to be regarded as 
the forerunner of inflammation of the lungs. Doubtless, it would term- 
inate thus seriously, were nothing done to arrest the progress of the 
aflfection. The change from extreme labor to perfect rest produces a 
revulsion of the system. The capillaries contract and soon become in a 
congested condition. Not only does this state affect the lungs, but it is 
present all over the body. Should the pulse be now taken, the artery 
will be round and gorged. The beat may be either quicker or slower 
than most books fix the number at ; but it will be very feeble and will 
convey no idea of vital activity. It hardly stirs, suggesting the surging 
of a tranquil summer sea upon a sandy shore. Partial perspirations 
may break forth, and the body may become wet with a fluid of no higher 
temperature than the skin from which it exudes. The feet are cold; 
the eye is fixed ; the living type of obedience moves not, when com- 
manded ; hearing is lost ; all natural functions appear to be arrested, 
except the breathing; and that being involuntary, nevertheless is evi- 
dently disordered. 



BRONCHITIS. 125 

If this condition be immediately attended to, it will disappear almost 
as quickly as it was exhibited. Take two ounces each of sulphuric ether 
and of laudanum ; cold water, one pint. Give this drink with caution, 
as the animal to which it is administered is not conscious. Have pa- 
tience with sickness, and the whole will be swallowed ; or the fumes will 
be inhaled and do almost as much good as the imbibition of the fluid. 

The drink being given, do not leave the stable. Wait by the side of 
the horse, watching the effect of the draught. If in ten minutes the 
horse has not pei'fectly recovered, or be but partially restored, let another 
similar portion be poured into the body. More will seldom be required; 
but, notwithstanding, watch for twenty minutes after the last drink, as 
such fits occasionally vanish and reappear. 

The rack and the manger must be emptied. Gruel is all we dare at 
present trust within reach of an exhausted frame. Though the animal 
would eat, solid food must be withheld. The body should be lightly, 
but well clothed ; and a pail of gruel should be suspended from the 
manger, so that a heavy head need not be raised high to partake of it. 

The next day the creature, thus treated, may return to its customary 
food and be as well as ever ; but when the animal reached home, should 
the groom have been in a hurry, if company should have been waiting 
for dinner, and the horse should be hastily turned into the stall by the 
only servant kept by gentility; then the congestion is unseen, and any 
disease may follow it. This condition used to be, as fainting in the 
human being once was, treated by the abstraction of blood. But to 
bleed a debilitated horse, is to increase the cause of the affection, which 
it should be the province of physic to destroy. By the stimulant, which 
leaves behind no inflammatory tendency; by the subtle distillation, which 
speedily traverses the frame, we revive the system and awaken lagging 
nature once more to vital activity. 

When congestion is not noticed in the first instance, and has time to 
become confirmed, the original disorder is invariably swallowed up in 
some greater evil. Pneumonia and pleurisy are the favorite shapes 
which it assumes ; but it has terminated in fatal enteritis. 

BRONCHITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 

This serious affection is, mostly, the consequence of man's neglect. 
The master rides far and fast. He dismounts at some pleasant threshold 
and remains long under the roof. During that time the horse stands 
outside, either shivering in the cold or pelted by the storm. The gen- 
eral treatment seems to say, that life and machinery, being equally sub- 
servient to man's will, are, in fact, the same things in man's regard. 



126 BRONCHITIS. 

Even the wheels and bars of polished iron, however, require care or they 
soon become useless ; the thews and sinews of a living body cannot be 
abused with impunity. So plain a truth should be acknowledged by 
something more than words. Life and functions connect men and ani- 
mals. Their habits may be dissimilar and their food not alike ; but, 
when we consider the wants of each, their liabilities and their diseases, 
the approach to actual sameness becomes almost startling. The man 
who can enjoy himself, without bestowing a serious thought upon the 
unfortunate steed which has carried him hither and will bear him hence, 
deserves to lose the life of which he is so culpably careless. Change the 
places of the two existences. Let the horse be rendered comfortable 
and the man be stationed outside. The result would be the same : the 
man would in that case probably suffer from bronchitis. Does intelligence 
require a more startling evidence of the link which binds master and 
servant while sojourners upon this earth ? 

Bronchitis is indeed a painful malady. Originally situated upon and 
confined to the membrane lining the air tubes, it has an aptitude to in- 
volve the entire contents of the thorax. Being the ailment of mucous 
membranes, it requires cautious treatment. A small blood-letting may 
induce the prostration no tonics can remove ; a slight dose of aloes often 
starts up the purgation no astringents will check. It is agile at metas— 
tisis. It too often leaves behind the evidence of its visitation. Add to 
all this, that though so much to be feared, it does not announce its advent 
with a thundering double knock. It creeps on insidiously, and comes in 
so gradual a form, as if it intended to deceive the groom. The appetite, 
during the primary stage, is often unaffected, nay, is sometimes increased. 
Stable-men have a strong prejudice where feeding is concerned. The 
most educated of the class can imagine nothing more than a slight 
cold, while the corn is only partially consumed. Thus the disease, in 
consequence of delay, mounts into fury, before its presence is fully rec- 
ognized. 

Very rarely is the groom's attention excited during the approach of 
the disorder, or while a short cough simply bespeaks irritation ; while 
the breathing is merely excited ; while the legs are warm ; while the 
mouth is moist, and the nasal membrane only a little deeper in hue than 
is positively consonant with perfect health. No ! The stable-man is 
content while any desire for food remains. Let appetite be quite gone ; 
let the horse be averse to move ; the cough sore, but evidently suppressed 
and painful ; the breathing quick and audible ; the nasal membrane 
violently scarlet ; the mouth hot, dry, and clammy ; the legs and body 
of uneven temperatures — here, cold as ice — there, of a dusty heat.' 
When danger cannot be mistaken, and hope has almost fled, then the 



BRONCHITIS. 



127 



Depletion is 




STEAMING APPARATUS FOR HORSES 
WITH BRONCHITIS. 



stable-man creeps to the parlor, with "Please, sir, I wish you would step 
and look at the horse." 

In a case of such a description, abstract no blood, 
forbidden, when mucous membrane is dis- 
ordered. The first thing is a large loose 
box. Into this is put the machine repre- 
sented in the annexed engraving. It is a 
portable boiler, having a covering of iron 
wire. The steam, generated by the char- 
coal fire, soon renders the air of the place 
moist and warm. It must be kept boiling 
day and night. It is of more service during 
night than day, and it should be very grad- 
ually withdrawn. 

The water, as it is exhausted in the above 
boiler, should be supplied with more at the 

full temperature. Very little fire will then keep up the steam, though, 
as the fumes of charcoal are decidedly unhealthy, it is always well when 
those fumes can, by means of a pipe, be conveyed to the outside of the 
building; if that be impossible, let every door and window be left open; 
the necessary admission of air may impoverish the steam, but the vapor 
is too dense to be entirely dispelled. The steam acts upon the lungs ; 
warm, moist air being soothing and curative to the thorax affected with 
bronchitis. When the apparatus cannot be obtained, the large nose- 
bag should be frequently applied during the day. 

Some scalded hay is also to be fixed under the throat by means of an 
eight-tailed bandage. A macintosh jacket is then laid on the floor, and 
the horse gently led forward till one leg rests within one armhole. The 
opposite leg is to be raised and put through the other opening; the 
cloth is next lifted up and temporarily fixed upon the animal ; after- 
wards, have six pieces of flannel, two three yards long and the entire 




EiaHT-TAlLED BANDAGE FOR RETAINING ANY SUBSTANCE AG.UNST THE THROAT OP A HORSE. 



width of the fabric, the others half a yard long and a foot wide. Satu- 
rate three of these with cold water ; having folded the long piece, apply 
it over the back, equally to either side ; the short pieces place upon the 
sides of the chest ; fasten the jacket over the spine. When the flannel is 



128 BRONCHITIS. 

warm, remove it ; replace it immediately with other flannels, which should 
be ready for this purpose. Do this continuously for at least a couple of 
hours, after which time the flannel may remain on ; but must, on no 
account, be suffered to become dry. The jacket and flannel should be 
worn for a week subsequent to restoration. 
Then prepare the following : 

Burgundy pitch Half a pound. 

Powdered camphor Two ounces. 

Powdered capsicums Half a drachm. 

Melt the pitch. Take the vessel which contains it off" the fire ; throw 
in the other ingredients, stir well, and apply while warm to the front of 
the neck, as low as the jacket will permit. 

For bronchitis, consisting principally of aggraved congestion, prepare 




f^-Z./A^ 



A HORSE DRESSED FOR BRONCHITIS. 



the following drink, and repeat it every half hour, until the pulse has 
regained its tone ; then give the drinks at longer intervals, and ultimately 
reduce them to three during the day, which continue till restoration is 
perfected : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Should no efi'ect be produced after the third drink, discontinue the 
frequency of the ethereal medicine, and substitute the following : — 

Infusion of aconite Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down with one ounce 

of water) Half a drachm. 

Persevere with the above till the pulse amends, when withdraw the 
aconite, but keep on with the belladonna, half a drachm of which may be 



BRONCHITIS. 



129 



added to each dose of the ethereal drink ; which ought to be resumed, 
should amendment ensue upon the administration of the aconite draught. 
Let the food consist entirely of thick gruel. The appetite occasionally 
is unaffected during bronchitis ; but, however pleasant it may be to 
behold a horse masticate, all solids should be withheld, especially during 
the acute stage. Nothing is so injurious to respiration as a loaded 
stomach, and a single meal (if permitted) would speedily aggravate the 
symptoms of this disease. When the disorder has subsided, food must 
be carefully introduced ; the water should be, as grooms say, "chilled," 
or, in ordinary language, should have the chill removed. Boiled roots 
or crushed and scalded oats should constitute the earliest approach to 
natural diet. Hay should be given with extreme caution, the desire 
being to nourish the body, not to load the stomach. A bundle of grass 
each day may be allowed upon recovery being assured ; and when hay is 
at length presented, mind that for the first mouth it is thoroughly damped; 
for nothing more retards recovery after bronchitis than the inhalation of 
those dusty particles with which hay too often abounds. 




THK COUGH OF INCURABLE BRONCHITIS. 



When the disorder is to terminate fatally, the proprietor, in the 
majority of instances, speedily learns the fact. The pulse continues 
unamended at first, but soon grows very quick and tremulous ; the breath- 
ing becomes more painful even to the spectator. Every inhalation ap- 
pears to shake the body ; yet, so eager is the desire for air, that the 
haste and violence of the respiration evidently defeat their object. The 
nasal membrane assumes a bluish tint, a foul, bloody froth hangs about 
the nostrils ; the eyes are dull and fixed. The cough is the most dis- 
tressing symptom. It occurs in fits, and during the paroxysms the 
wretched animal reels about. The noise cannot now be restrained ; the 
horse has no strength to struggle with disease. The sound which shakes 

9 



130 



PNEUMONIA. 



the sore lungs and checks the breathing that was ah'eady short to suf- 
focation, cannot now be suppressed. It continues until a quantity of 
discolored fluid is ejected from the nostrils, then a brief respite ensues ; 
but, as time progresses, the fits grow more severe and much longer, 
while the strength to endure them even more rapidly decreases. 

It reads sadly, that hundreds of horses have thus perished without 
making any impresssion upon either masters or men. The directions, 
which have been given at some length, will probably be discarded by 
grooms as far too troublesome ; they like the man who can give physic 
to a horse when the animal is sick, and "wants no more bother made." 
The proprietors will object to the expense and the personal superintend- 
ence which is necessitated. Most gentlemen hurry thi'ough the stable 
as though they were intruders upon their own premises, and expected all 
business there transacted to be dispatched most expeditiously. The 
master, when in the stable, is never at home ; he is generally very much 
abroad ; the groom, if a horse dies, always knew of something which 
must have saved the life, only it wasn't tried ; and to prove his compre- 
hension of the malady, in answer to inquiries, he says, thereby showing 
the real extent of his information, " The horse caught a cold and died 
of an inflammation." The employer commonly follows a system which 
custom approves ; he does not trouble himself to hire a better qualified 
or a less prejudiced attendant for his stables. The place and all that is 
in it continues the same, only it contains one life the less. The lesson is 
thrown away, and all this great suffering in a huge animal has produced 
no more than a passing regret for the pecuniary loss. 



PNEUMONIA.— INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 

Under this title our grandfathers congregated all afi"ections of the 
lungs. Congestion, bronchitis, pleurisy were all regarded as stages of 




THE COMMENCEMENT OF PNEUMONIA. 



pneumonia. This error, even at the present time, confuses the descrip- 
tions of most authors. True pneumonia is, consequently, now more 



PNEUMONIA. 



131 



rarely encountered ; such a result accords with the knowledge gained by 
anatomical investigation concerning the structure of or the substance of 
the lung. The bronchial tubes constitute a large portion of these organs, 
but their disease is termed bronchitis. The pleura covers the lungs, 
but its inflammation is called pleurisy. The blood is affected during all 
disorders, but the vessels themselves are rarely implicated ; involvement 
of the absorbents constitutes glanders and farcy. Yet, when the tubes, 
covering, veins, arteries, and absorbents are abstracted, there remains 
only cellular tissue ; that structure is not apt to take on inflammation, 
and when it is so implicated, the inflammation of cellular tissue is re- 
garded as rheumatism: consequently, there remains only a species of 
general disorder of all the constituents to stand for pneumonia. 

Horses supposed to have perished from pneumonia, not unfrequently, 
when examined after death, present hydrothorax or dropsy of the chest; 
thus proving the pleura to have been affected. However, such vivid 
descriptions of pneumonia are bequeathed us by our ancestors, that we 
are, to a certain degree, overpowered by the authority of assertion. Too 
many are actually overawed by the positiveness of the dead ; thus, in 
many instances, influenza is treated as inflammation of the lungs ; dropsy 
of the chest, brought on by weakness, naturally ensues. 

When acute pneumonia (as it is called, which really represents a sub- 
acute disorder of all the contents of the lungs) does occur, it is rather 
lingering in its development ; the breathing is labored and slightly 
accelerated ; the pulse is less increased than would be expected ; the 
artery is full, and the beat seems 
driven by some hidden force 
through a gelatinous obstacle; 
it bulges out, and then all is 
still for an interval, after which 
the operation is repeated. The 
horse has lost all spirit, indeed, 
a considerable portion of its con- 
sciousness has evidently depart- 
ed ; it stands as though from 
giddiness it feared to fall ; its 
legs are separated and strained 
outward to the furthest limit. 

The head and ears are de- 
jected ; the coat rough ; the ex- 
tremities cold ; the body without 
warmth; the visible membranes discolored, and the bowels costive; in 
short, the animal appears oppressed by some heavy misfortune. Feeling 




THE POSITION ASSUMED BT THE HORSE DURING AN 
AGGRAVATED ATTACK OF PNEUMONIA. 



132 



PNEUMONIA. 



seems half dead ; thus we are warranted in imagining that the attack has 
embraced all the component structures of the lungs, and that it consists 
in no small degree of congestion. 

The general practice is to bleed, and to bleed largely ; to let the 
current run till the animal is on the point of fainting ; then, as bleeding 
always quickens the pulse, more blood is abstracted to lower it ; this not 
answering, the same plan is adhered to. The vein is tapped and the 
liquor drawn, as though the vital fluid were table beer, and the animal 
an inanimate cask. At last, nature resents such repeated depletion. 
No sooner is the fleam struck than weakness is alarmed ; then the eyes 
and nostrils are sponged with cold water, to procure a little more blood; 
until, at last, the animal dies, as practitioners have said, because the 
horse could not bear bleeding enough ! 

The writer does not advise to destroy the strength, which is now 
essential to surmount disease. Bleed only once, then take no more than 
will afford ease to the sufferer ; if a pint accomplishes that object, a 
pint is sufficient. Be guided neither by the quantity abstracted nor by 
the faltering of the pulse ; watch the head of the animal ; so soon as 
that is raised and the general aspect denotes a sense of life, pin up the 
orifice ; but think twice before you bleed once, and shun the operation 
if it can possibly be avoided, or if the fluid has a thick and black ap- 
pearance, dribbling down the neck, not spirting from the vein. 

When you first behold the horse, carefully examine it ; place your ear 
to the side ; in health there is only a gentle blowing sound audible ; if 
more than that is heard ; if something within the chest seems to grate or 
suck ; if, in addition, any noise, as of a huge pair of bellows at violent 
work, is detected, make up your mind to a case of pneumonia. No time 

is to be lost ; procure a large and airy loose 
box; strew it thickly with tan ; do this, be- 
cause pneumonia has an aptitude "to fall 
into the feet," as grooms say, or, in other 
language, the disease is subject to metastisis, 
and the inflammation will sometimes quit 
the lungs to reappear in the feet ; something 
soft and cool is most likely to prevent such 
a mishap ; therefore, when the tan is strewn 
upon the floor, moisten it with a watering- 
pot, and have the iron shoes taken off the 
animal. 

Place a pail of water within easy reach 
of the horse. Food — even gruel — is not now required. If it is winter, 
put a hood upon the head and throw a loose cloth over the loins and 




A STEAMING APPARATUS. 



PNEUMONIA. 133 

quarters ; then introduce the steaming apparatus, and set it to work with 
all speed, leaving every window and door open, while the vapor is gen- 
erated. The air being loaded with vapor, take off all clothing; but 
give, in the first instance, so soon as it can be procured, the following 
drink : — • 

Solution of aconite root Half an ounce. 

Sulphuric ether Two ounces. 

Extract of belladonna (rubbed down in half a pint of 

water) A drachm. 

Repeat this dose three times in the course of the day and once during 
the night, keeping up the steam all the time. Watch the pulse and 
observe the breathing. When the first amends, the quantity of aconite 
may be diminished ; when the last grows easier, the amount of bella- 
donna may be decreased. 

These medicines should be persevered with, increasing the ingredients 
or diminishing them, as the symptoms warrant. Thus, if the pulse prove 
very obstinate, six, or even nine doses of half an ounce of solution of 
aconite in a little water, without other ingredients, may be exhibited in 
the twenty-four hours. Should the breathing be severe, the belladonna 
may be augmented in a similar proportion. Until the symptoms are 
more than merely amended, the nourishment ought entirely to consist of 
hay-tea, with a little oatmeal boiled in it. When improvement decidedly 
takes place, the hay-tea may be made a little thicker, and a couple of 
pounds of boiled potatoes allowed per day. So soon as the appetite 
seems to be eager for food, a pint of crushed oats, thoroughly scalded, 
may be given six times during the day. Great care, must, however, be 
taken not to overload the stomach, or to permit a full meal : a single 
gorge is likely to provoke a return of the disorder. Little and often 
must be the rule at first ; and the quantity may be increased while the 
frequency is diminished, as recovery is confirmed. Let some days elapse, 
however, before any hay is presented : this substance rather amuses the 
horse and fills out the stomach, than nourishes the body. Allow to enter 
the stable none of the groom's favorite drink, which consists of a handful 
of flour stirred into a pailful of cold water. The flour is not in solution 
— it soon sinks to the bottom ; and the horse, which you intend should 
in some degree be nourished, receives nothing but water. 

Order the cook to prepare the gruel, and see that she does it with as 
much care and cleanliness as she would exercise for any Christian. The 
groom's gruel is hot water, which may or may not be boiling, stirred 
upon a certain quantity of meal. A lady may conjecture how she would 
relish such a composition sent to her sick chamber ; and the horse is as 
nice in its taste as any human being possibly can be. 



134 



PNEUMONIA. 



Neither permit any grass to be put before an animal which is recovering' 
from pneumonia. Grasses of all kinds contain the least possible nutri- 
ment in the largest possible bulk. The object now is to accomplish the 
introduction of nutriment in the most concentrated form. A distended 
stomach impedes the action of the diaphragm, and thereby is most 
injurious to the breathing. 




A MUCH-WISHED FOR SIGHT DURIXO DISEASE OF THE LUNGS. 



The first marked sign of improvement, during pneumonia, is the animal 
lying down. When this wished-for sight is before your eyes, do not 
enter to distui'b the prostrate horse. It has, under disease, stood for 
several days. Its limbs must ache and its feet feel sore : make no noise, 
therefore. Respect the repose of the sufferer, and be grateful that your 
horse, probably, has escaped from danger. 

If, subsequent to recovery, the restoration to perfect health is not so 
rapid as you could desire, be very particular about the feeding. At the 
same time apply a strong blister upon the front of the throat, down to 
the chest and between the legs. That blister having worn itself out, 
apply another upon the sides of the throat and the vpper part of the 
ribs; but respect the sides of the thorax; because the animal rests on 
these parts, and, during recovery, rest is of more value than medicine. 
Nothing, therefore, should be permitted that is likely to prevent so bene- 
ficial a state from being indulged in. Abjure all purgatives — these 
favorite potions are too debilitating for pneumonia ; forbid all mashes ; 
nature, as she permits recovery, will, at her own time, relieve the body ; 



PNEUMONIA. 



135 



ADHESION 1. THE PLEURA PULMONALIS 
UMTED BY DISEASE TO THE PLEURA 
C08TALIS. 

aa. The pleura pulmonalis, or the 
natural covering of the lung. 

hh. The pleura costalis, or the lining 
membrane of the chest. 

c. The false adhesion, fi.ving tlie 

lung and preventing its full 
e.xpansion. 

d. The divided surface of the lung. 




adhere to the treatment which has been laid down ; permit no tonics ; 
care and good food are the best restoratives. But, above all things, be 
certain the health is thoroughly recovered 
before the horse, which has been seriously 
ill, is again compelled to labor. 

Several states are mentioned as the con- 
sequence of pneumonia. Adhesion of the 
lung to the covering of the thorax is alluded 
to as one result of this disease ; but before 
adhesion could take place, inflammation 
must have existed in the pleura, which lines 
the interior of the chest and envelops the 
lung itself; consequently, pleurisy must 
have been present before the pleura could 
be sufficiently inflamed for adhesion to en- 
sue. The other condition is the result of 
congestion ; the tubes and vessels alike are 
clogged, the lung is converted from its soft 
and spongy natural texture to a firm and 
solid substance resembling liver. But con- 
gestion is not pneumonia, neither is a solid 
state of the bronchial tubes by any means 
good evidence that pneumonia has provoked the morbid alteration. 

Now, in conclusion, we must answer the important inquiry, — what is 
the cause of this affliction ? Poverty, without dependence, inherits few 
disorders. Nature, in mercy, spares the peasant those visitations which 
are heaped upon the nobleman. To what, then, shall we attribute the 
ailment of a life so entirely in possession of another as that of the horse ? 
Is it untruth to point to that which in ordinary language passes for the 
master's thoughtlessness? The creature is often worked, not to the 
point of fatigue, but is goaded to the possibility of exhaustion ; fed 
upon the cheapest sustenance, and lodged according to the proprietor's 
convenience; made subservient to the whims of vanity, and forced to 
conform to the habits or the caprices of fashion ; now, waiting patiently 
in the storm ; then, hurried along the dusty roads through the parching 
heat; now, stopped during a long journey, and expected hastily to con- 
sume the provender which shall support life the remainder of the distance : 
treatment like this will provoke more acute evils than pneumonia. The 
last disorder is of too dull a type to be begotten by so harsh a parent. 

The horse which is pampered, or has much to eat and little work to 
do ; the creature which for days may stagnate in the stable and then 
be suddenly brought forth to extraordinary exertion ; the horse whose 



HEPATIZATION 2. OR THE LUNG BY DIS- 
EASE fONVEETED INTO A SUBSTANCE 
RESEMBLING LIVER. 



136 PLEURISY. 

owner is capricious ; the animal whose work is uncertain ; the quad- 
ruped which now is idle, and now is required to make good the lost 
time, — is the living being prepared to exhibit any slow disorder — to 
consume itself with the disease which an existence, properly treated, 
would possess the energy to resist. 

Is it strange, that a creature doomed to so raiach and such deep sub- 
serviency, occasionally fails, even when possessed by what men call the 
best of masters ? Is it just reason for wonder, that flesh occasionally 
rebels against the treatment which human ignorance subjects it to ? 
Were the horse not a very hardy animal, were not the life implanted 
as firmly as the frame is set, it would not survive a tithe part of the 
usage it now endures, and, notwithstanding, continues to live on and to 
obey. 

PLEURISY. 

This most painful disease, like those of the lungs generally, visits 
valuable horses during the years when they are most esteemed. The 
unbroken colt is seldom attacked, and the aged animal is, to an almost 
equal degree, exempt. The young steed, newly stabled, is liable ; and 
that liability remains up to the sixth year, when it gradually subsides. 
It is a terrible affliction. Its anguish is localized and concentrated. It 
is inflammation of the fine, glistening membrane covering the lungs and 
lining the inside of the chest. At every inspiration and at every expira- 
tion the inflamed surfaces must move upon each other. To breathe is 
the primary necessity of the creature's life. It cannot exist and refuse 
to inflate the lungs ; yet is existence purchased at a price worth many 
years of happiness. The inflamed surfaces cannot remain quiet ; yet, to 
render the condition of motion the more acute, inflammation stops the 
secretion, which, during health, smoothed and lubricated the passage of 
the membranes. During disease, the pleura is swollen, rough, and dry ; 
it grates or scratches as one surface is, by the necessity to breathe, 
dragged over the other. 

Membranes are sensitive in disease in proportion to the fineness of 
their structure, and to their insensibility during health. The pleura 
belongs to what are termed serous membranes. These line closed 
cavities ; as the chest, the abdomen, and the joints. Of the existence 
of none of these are we conscious while they are free from disease ; but, 
let the inflammation set in, and it would be difficult to decide which of 
them is the most painful. Fortunately, however, pleurisy, when concen- 
trated or singly present, terminates generally by the second day. 

The symptoms, therefore, are quickly developed. The violence on 
their first appearance has been so great, that an attack of pleurisy has 



PLEURISY. 



137 



been mistaken for a fit of spasmodic colic. A little care will guard 
against so fatal an error. The pulse, in colic, is always natural at the 
commencement, and the fits, when they first occur, are invariably of short 
duration. In pleurisy, the vessel strikes the fingers ; the blow is strong, 
and the artery is thin ; the pain is continuous ; the agony never remits 
or ceases ; the horse never feeds ; the body is hot, and indicates the fire 
within ; the feet are icy cold ; the muscles are frequently corrugated in 
patches, and partial perspirations break forth upon the surface ; a cough 
is often, not invariably, present ; it is always suppressed and dry ; it 
suggests no notion that the intent is to clear the throat ; the inclination 
to cough, from the larynx sympathizing with the lungs, is great ; the 
feeling cannot be entirely mastered, — but the horse is fearful of indulging 
an impulse, which would violently shake the inflamed chest. The ear, 
placed against the ribs, detects a grating sound, and the respiratory 
murmur is less clear than usual. Pressure made on the free interspaces 
between the ribs sometimes deprives the animal almost of consciousness ; 
it shrinks, and were the torture continued, it would fall. At other times 
anguish maddens even timidity, — the foot is lifted or the teeth are dis- 
played, to repel the tormentor. When left alone, the head is frequently 
turned toward the side, with a piteous stare of wonder and inquiry. 
Altogether the animal is, as it were, inspirited by the disorder. 




A HORSE SUFFEKING UNDER PLEURISY. 



The fore foot is scarcely ever quiet ; it constantly paws, which action, 
in the horse, always expresses impatience or pain. The breathing, of 
course, is peculiar; a full inspiration the animal dare not take. Before 
inhalation is half completed the ribs fly backward. However, the back- 
ward action has hardly been accomplished before anguish once more 
compels a change ; thus the breathing, to a looker-on, appears short, 
jerking, quick, and always imperfect. 



138 PLEURISY. 

The treatment must be active, as it is likely to be short. At the first 
outbreak, abstract enough blood to ease the horse, but take no more ; 
place the sufferer in a cool, loose box ; put woolen bandages upon all 
the legs, but leave the body unclothed ; give, every quarter of an hour, 
a scruple of tincture of aconite in a wineglass of warm water. Feel the 
pulse before each dose ; when that has softened, discontinue the aconite ; 
every second hour then administer one ounce of sulphuric ether and of 
tincture of opium in a tumbler of cold water, to dispel any congestion 
that may lurk about the pleura, and also to lend smoothness or fullness 
to the pulse. 

Pursue these measures for the first day and night. On no account be 
tempted to bleed a second time, for fear of that weakness which generates 
hydrothorax. When the pulse and pain are amended, should the cough 
remain, introduce the steaming apparatus twice described under the 
headings of the two previous articles. The bowels are generally cos- 
tive ; be not alarmed ; with the departure of the disorder they will relax. 
Place lukewarm water within the easy reach of the horse ; but before 
the symptoms abate, introduce nothing of a more stimulating nature. 
When the disorder lessens, hay-tea may be allowed ; as improvement 
increases, the diet may be gradually augmented after the manner de- 
scribed, when considering the treatment of pneumonia. Such care is 
essential, because any violent disorder in a confined part of the body has 
a tendency to involve other structures, and the danger of this increases 
as the inflammation is removed from the surface. 

The tranquilizing of the respiration, the softness of the pulse and the 
return of the appetite will announce the departure of pleurisy. When 
these longed-for indications are remarked, blister the throat and chest : 
should any seeds of the malady appear to be not entirely removed, repeat 
the blister to the throat and chest. Should the bowels not be relieved, 
throw up copious enemas of blood-warm gruel ; nothing more must be 
attempted. Aloes or salts are poisons during pleurisy ; wait patiently, 
and in time the establishment of health will restore all the natural functions, 
or if they are very confined, a bundle or two of cut grass may be presented 
with the usual food. 

A yellow, transparent discharge from the nostrils, occasionally streaked 
with blood, and more or less otherwise discolored; a horrible anxiety 
of countenance, which seems to appeal mutely to every human being the 
saddened eye rests upon; quickened breathing, a more rapid but a sink- 
ing pulse, and a leaden state of the nasal membranes declare the proba- 
])ility of a fatal termination. Pleurisy, however, mostly ends in hydro- 
thorax, for the character of which the reader is referred to the succeeding 
pages. 



HYDROTHORAX. 139 

Now comes the sad inquiry, what is the cause of pleurisy ? All kinds 
of things may excite it ; but those things which lead to so much suffering 
in an inotfensive animal, are under the control of man. Overexertion, 
being driven or ridden far and fast, the spirit being stimulated, and the 
energy promoted by potent drinks; for men will give the contents of 
the public-house to the horse when a wager is at stake, and will lash, 
while the limbs can move, to win any pitiful bet, — these circumstances 
not unfrequently provoke pleurisy. Injuries received externally not un- 
seldom start up internal inflammation. Hurts calculated to lead to so 
serious an evil, together with broken ribs, will not be surprising to those 
who have seen the unseemly instruments which man will, in his rage, 
seize upon to strike the animal with. Colds, aggravated by change of 
temperature, as waiting long in the rain and being flurried home after- 
ward ; inattention in feeding, thus generating a plethora, is apt to dis- 
order any internal organ, and many other such like causes will generate 
the disease. 

And what right has man to inflict so much agony upon any life in- 
trusted to his care ? What right has humanity to complain of tyranny 
in its superiors, when the human race can neglect and entail such anguish 
upon the beings beneath them ? The greed of gain or the pride of win- 
ning are the first motives assigned as the promoters of this terrible afflic- 
tion; next come the gratifications of passion; then follows carelessness 
for another's welfare, etc. Which of these several causes is worth the 
torture of a living body ? such torture, too, as the rack cannot equal, 
and human malice is happily forbidden to rival I 

A little self-restraint instilled by a better plan of education, a little 
more humanity enforced by the teachers of religion, to instruct that man 
should not view himself as the owner of the earth which he temporarily 
inhabits; that man should not consider himself the proprietor of the 
lives which share the globe with him ; that man should be actuated by 
genuine Christian love toward all animated nature, feeling kindly for 
the lives akin to his own, and acknowledging, as fellow-sojourners, the 
creatures by which he is surrounded, — then, how much affliction might be 
eradicated from that which wickedness alone renders a "vale of tears!" 

HYDROTHORAX. 

This is the consequence of the latter stage of pleurisy ; or rather, to 
speak with caution, we fear it is often the result of the severe treatment 
adopted to dispel that malady. 

Man leaves his pi'operty, which is very ill of pleurisy over night, hope- 
less that the animal can survive till morning. On returning, however. 



140 



HYDRO THORAX. 



to the stable early ou the following day, to his surprise he beholds the 
liorse actually looking better. The pain has evidently abated, if not 
altogether departed ; the eye is more cheerful ; the manner more en- 
couraging. Having observed this, attention rests upon the flanks. The 




A HORSE DYING OP HYDROTHORAX. 



motion of these parts is greatly increased. They are now forcibly 
brought into action. The suspicion is awakened. The ear is applied 
to the chest. Near the breast bone, or low down, all is very quiet. A 
little higher up nothing can be heard; but rather past the middle of the 
ribs the sound of breathing is once more detected. Again and again is 
the experiment repeated, until the disappointed proprietor is forced to 
believe that which is against his hope. 

Still clinging to chance, after conviction has gained possession of his 
mind, there is another trial he will make to render despair a certainty. 
He seeks some man — any one will do ; and having found a loiter|r, he 
returns with him to the stable. He places this individual upon one side 
of the horse, and tells the man to slap the side of the animal with the 
open palm, when the word "now" is spoken. This being arranged, the 
master goes to the opposite side. He puts his ear to the place where 
the silence ceased. Having assured himself the spot he has chosen is 
correct, he pronounces the monosyllable "now." Directly afterward a 
dull sound is heard, and a metallic ring or splashing noise is soon after- 
ward audible. 

All now is confirmed, yet, "to make assurance doubly sure," the owner 
tries to take the pulse at the jaw. There is none to be felt ! The hand 
is then placed near the chest, upon the left side and over the region of 
the heart. The sensation of a throb, coming through water, is percepti- 



HYDROTHORAX. 



141 



ble. The last requirement is confirmed. The horse has dropsy of the 
chest, and the termination of the disorder is all but certain. 

The first thing to be done, in these cases, is to draw off the liquid be- 
fore it soddens the pleura and further distresses the already labored 







MAKING THE PRIMARY INCISION FOR TAPPINQ 
THE CHEST. 



A TROCAR VriTH THE STILET UPON IT. 




REMOTINO THE FLUID IN 
HYDROTHORAX. 



breathing. The manner of performing this operation is very simple, 
and the operation itself remarkably safe. A spot near the inferior mar- 
gin of the chest being selected, a small portion of skin, between the 
eighth and ninth ribs, is pulled forward, and then a narrow slit with a 
sharp knife is made upon the place which the skin originally covered. 
A trocar, armed with a stilet, is then inserted into the opening, and so 
much force applied as suffices to propel it onward. The moment all 
resistance ceases, the trocar is within the cavity of the thorax. The 
stilet is then withdrawn, and the water usually flows forth. 

There is in this operation no danger of piercing the lung. The 
trocar must be driven upward and onward, very far and very forcibly, 
to induce such an effect. The lung is protected from all lawful violence 
by the water, on the top of which it floats. 

There is, however, a dispute concerning how much of the fluid should 
be extracted. It is a good rule to take all you can get, or all the con- 
dition of the horse will permit to be abstracted. Do not commence the 
operation with any determinate quantity in your mind. Take all, if the 
horse will suffer so much to be withdrawn ; but if the animal, after the 
loss of a quart, shows signs of approaching faintness, withdraw the 
trocar, let the skin fly back, and wait a more favorable opportunity for 
the next attempt. 

In an hour or two the trial can be repeated. Make a new opening 
(for never risk exciting irritation in the original wound, by again thrust- 



142 HYDROTHORAX. 

ing the trocar through it.) There are but few precautions to be ob- 
served during the performance of tapping the chest. It is usual to 
teach, that the posterior border of the ribs is to be avoided, because this 
portion of the bones is grooved for the reception of the artery. Anatomy, 
however, shows that such vessels are amply protected by the grooves in 
which they travel. 

There is also some selection to be made in the trocar which shall be 
employed. If the tube be of too great a size and permits the fluid to 
gush quickly out, nature may sink under the sudden change induced : the 
water, consequently, ought to be very gradually abstracted. For this 
purpose, the instrument cannot well be too small. The most diminutive 
of those made for human practice will be quite large enough, so that the 
bulk of liquid within the chest may be insensibly removed, and the horse 
be scarcely aware of the change. Those trocars, however, which are 
made for the human practitioner will not be long enough ; therefore one 
must be procured longer, but of the like bore. 

Sometimes, after the trocar is properly inserted, no fluid will pour 
forth : the operation is then all but hopeless. It must have been so 
long delayed that various substances have been secreted. These cover 
the interior of the chest. They obstruct the mouth of the cannula and 
prevent the liquid issuing by the tube. 

It is customary, in these cases, to employ a whalebone probe. This 
is inserted up the trocar, and then moved about in different directions. 
The intention is to break down the layer of pus or lymph lining the 
thorax, and to allow the water to leave the cavity. But this is almost 
needless, as the author does not recollect a single case of this description 
which ultimately survived. 

It is also advisable to draw off the fluid from both sides at the same 
time, so there may be no pressure upon the delicate divisions of the 
chest, and upon the important vessels within them. But happily the 
fluid is, in the first instance, generally confined to one side only. 

Always pull a piece of skin either backward or forward, before the 
incision is made through the integument. The reason for doing this is, 
because, when the trocar is removed, the skin may resume its proper 
place, and act as a valve, keeping out the atmosphere from the cavity; 
for external air, getting into the interior of the chest, is proved to be 
most injurious to life. 

There is to be tendered but one last admonition ; even this has been 
in a great measure anticipated by the previous observations. The 
animal must not be left during the operation. Whatever time may be 
consumed by the withdrawal of the liquid, the operator must remain a 
patient spectator of the slow abstraction ; for if the horse should be 



DISEASE OF THE HEART. 143 

left, syncope may come on during such absence, and the animal, on the 
person's return, be found prostrate upon the ground. On the first sign 
of weakness, the cannula should be at once removed ; for, should it be 
suffered to remain, regardless of this caution, the horse may even die 
through sudden collapse. 

The treatment, after the withdrawal of the fluid, is entirely changed; 
pleurisy has now departed, and weakness is left behind. The most 
nourishing but carefully-prepared food must be given; boiled oats and 
beans may be allowed in any quantity which the animal will consume, 
while the following ball should be administered, night and morning: — 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Strychnia Half a grain. 

Sulphate of zinc Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 

That which will denote a fatal termination is restlessness; neighing; 
partial sweats ; swellings under the region of the chest, and a distressed 
breathing, which nothing can relieve. The death struggle is as short as 
the disease has been painful. 

DISEASE OF THE HEART. 

This affection is characterized by various names in scientific books, as 
carditis, pericarditis, hydrops pericardii, inflammation of the pericardium, 
etc. All such conditions in the horse 
were discovered by examinations institu- 
ted after death, when, unfortunately, all 
opportunity of observing the symptoms 
had ceased. Veterinary science cannot 
distinguish one state from another, while 
life exists. Probably this deficiency may 
be attributed to the inutility of such dis- 
crimination. Disease of the heart in 
horses is incurable. In man, who can 

„ ,.,.., , DISEASE OF THE HEART IN THE HORSE. 

strictly conform to his physician's orders ; 

avoid excitement ; abstain from exertion ; eat only such a quantity of 
such a food, prepared after such a manner; feed at such an hour and 
rest at such a time ; who can live by rule ; — in man, the diseases of the 
heart are only to be delayed, not driven from their certain issues. 

Practically, therefore, so the heart be diseased, it is of small import 
what shape the disorder may assume. The death is always sudden; it is 
likely to occur when the horse is journeying at its topmost speed; when 
iiccident generally follows. Consequently, it is perhaps wiser to take 




144 DISEASE OF THE HEART. 

the life, thus afflicted and thus dangerous. The horse may appear 
blooming, may even be skittish; yet, the existence shall at any moment 
be cut short. Auscultation affords the surest means of detection. Place 
the ear close to the left side and lower part of the chest; if any unusual 
sound be audible, conclude the heart to be diseased. 

The signs visible, externally, are sometimes sufficiently emphatic to 
admit of no doubt. The eye is expressive of constant anguish ; the 
countenance is haggard; the pulse is feeble and irregular, but the heart 
throbs; its throbs are visible, and frequently they are to be seen as 
plainly on the right side as on the left. The beat is occasionally so 
violent as to shake the body. The carotid artery can be felt to pulsate 
in the neck. The regurgitation, within the jugular vein, is nearly always 
excessive, — it often reaches almost to the jaw. It takes place by jerks, 
which ascend high and higher, each becoming less and more weak, as it 
mounts upward. 

An attempt to represent this has been hazarded in the illustration. 
It is, however, impossible to truthfully depict action; and the reader 
will comprehend the jerks, in nature, do not occur all at the same period; 
but the first subsides before the second can be exhibited. 

The appetite is sometimes ravenous ; more often it is fastidious. The 
breathing is not accelerated, excepting during the existence of pain; 
lameness is occasionally witnessed in one fore leg; dropsical swellings 
and abdominal pains have been observed. The animal, when progress- 
ing, will suddenly stop, tremble, and appear about to fall ; as suddenly, 
it will recover and proceed upon the journey. Noises, expressive of 
acute anguish, are, under the impulse^jf the moment, occasionally uttered. 
Sometimes the horse cannot be made to move, and it is always averse to 
turn in the stall. Often it is seen to yawn ; but more frequently has 
been known to heave long and deep-drawn sighs. No ascertained sign, 
however, announces the climax of the disorder to be near at hand. 
Death is always unexpected, and, therefore, is a surprise. 

The cause of heart disease is unknown. It may, however, be surmised 
from the fact that it is most common in gentlemen's stables, and is all 
but engrossed by the animals which have for years been subjected to the 
abuses therein practiced. It is incurable ; and all physic is thrown away 
upon this disorder. 



CHAPTER VII. 



THE STOMACH, LIVER, ETC. — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

This is generally provoked by the heedlessness of the rider. A horse 
is "overmarked," as the condition is technically called, when the animal 
is urged onward to the point of falling. The person who may occupy 
the saddle then becomes conscious of a strange and loud noise coming 
from the body which he strides ; it appears to the equestrian as though 




THS TOUNa GENTLEMAN AND THE OLD HOKSE. 



some demon were located within the carcass, and were violently striking 
the sides. Should the indication be observed, the noise will be found to 
proceed from behind or immediately under, rather than from any part 
anterior to the rider. 

The noise is produced by spasm of the diaphragm. The horse must, 
as the word " overmarked" seems to imply, have been pushed far beyond 
the point where man should have pulled the rein. A little distance 
farther, after the symptom is devoloped, will bring the animal to the 
ground ; let the check, therefore, be immediately given ; the rider should 

10 (145) 



146 SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

dismount ; the loins be covered with the gentleman's coat, if nothing 
better be at hand ; he who has caused the misery is bound to make any 
sacrifice for its alleviation. The girths should be loosened, the bridle 
removed, and when time has passed for the system to become slightly 
tranquilized, the sufferer should be very gently led to the nearest shelter. 
So soon as it is under cover, the following drink should be administered, 
but time should be taken to give the medicine, as the condition of the 
horse forbids all haste : — • 

Sulphuric ether Two ounces. 

Tincture of camphor Half an ounce. 

Tincture of opium One ounce. 

Cold water or gruel One pint. 

This should be repeated every quarter of an hour, till four drinks are 
swallowed ; then the intervals should be lengthened to half an hour, 
and, as the symptom decreases, the medicine ought to be administered 
at still longer periods, and ultimately, but gradually, withdrawn. 

There are, however, other things to be done. When the animal is 
first brought in, procure five quiet assistants ; give a leg-bandage each 
to four of the helpers, and a sponge, with a basin of cold water, to the 
fifth. Order the men to perform their ministration silently; the four are 
to bandage the four legs while the fifth sponges out the mouth, nose, 
eyes, and anus ; this done, the body is to be superficially cleaned. Sweat 
is to be removed and dirt taken off; the ears pulled, and the head made 
comfortable ; the tail and mane having been previously combed, a hood 
and body clothing should be put on. 

All this should be well understood beforehand ; while it is being 
accomplished not a word should be Spoken ; nothing is more soothing 
to an agitated system than perfect silence. Wet swabs should then be 
placed upon the feet, a pail of gruel suspended from the manger, and a 
man left to warn off all noisy strangers from the exterior of the build- 
ing ; for during spasm from overexertion perfect quietude is quite as 
essential as medicine. 

Spasm of the diaphragm, if taken in time, is not generally fatal ; and 
no man, however determined a " Nimrod" he may be, is justified in pro- 
ceeding after having recognized so mysterious a warning. The sound 
before alluded to must emphatically inform him all is not right with the 
animal on which he is seated. It is folly to urge that the horse enjoys 
the chase as much as the rider; no life would, for its own pleasure, run 
itself to a spasmodic exhaustion. Old hunters may have left the field to 
follow the hounds ; the animals, however, obey only the impulse of 
education, and did what they imagined would gratify their superiors. 
The horse is given as a servant to man ; the creature is obedient to its 



ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



147 



destiny ; to serve is its lot, to please is its reward. Body and soul it 
devotes to the heartless being who is assigned its appointed lord ; it 
will spend its last breath in the gratification of its master ; such aifection 
surely merits better treatment than the quadruped generally receives. 

When spasm of the diaphragm terminates fatally, approaching dissolu- 
tion is announced by easily recognized signs. The pulse cannot be felt 
at the jaw ; the heart only flutters ; the feet are icy cold ; a yellow dis- 
charge drains from the nostrils ; the breath becomes fetid ; the pupil of 
the eye enlarges ; the horse wanders round and round its box ; it soon 
sinks and perishes. 

ACUTE GASTRITIS. 

This most painful affliction is only known in the horse as the conse- 
quence of some poisonous substance being swallowed. Poisoning entire 
teams of valuable horses has followed the use of certain powders, these 
being mixed with the corn ; the intention was to improve the personal 
appearace of the animals to which the drug was administered. Carters 
have a large faith in condition powders, and a distant belief in the magic 
of medicine ; in their ignorance, they spend their hard-earned wages to 
procure the stuff, too often compounded of agents which never should be 
trusted in the hands of the uneducated. The men argue, if these powders, 
say one spoonful given each night, will make the horse bloom in a fort- 
night, two spoonfuls must do the same thing in a week ; the spoonful 




A HORSE SUFFERING FROM ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



possibly contains the utmost limits of the dose ; that quantity exceeded 
may endanger or destroy life. But ignorance is always impatient ; it 
ever desires the speediest results ; and if accident attends its eagerness, 
indignation should be visited upon those who put responsible trusts in 



148 ACUTE GASTRITIS. 

such keeping ; upon the men who for gain sell poisonous drugs to the 
obviously uninformed. 

Books and charts are published, explaining the various antidotes and 
tests to be employed for the detection and counteraction of the different 
poisons. Such authorities are of little service in the stable ; the tests 
require care and time for their application ; the symptoms are mostly so 
urgent as to permit no leisure for scientific inquiry. In an acute case, 
dependence must be placed on general principles, and fortune must be 
relied on to guide the result. 

Certain poisons act instantaneously and without any warning suffi- 
ciently energetic to be interpreted, as the twigs or leaves of the yew- 
tree. 

Other agents immediately establish the lesson which sometimes speedily 
kills, but more often produces consequences which will ultimately destroy 
life, though death may be some time before it occurs, as the mineral 
acids, etc. 

The presence of particular kinds is announced only by violent disorder, 
as powerful diuretics and potent purgatives. 

The symptoms, therefore, are not decided ; the carter has his motives 
for silence, and the inability of the horse to vomit forbids the earliest 
announcement of deranged stomach. The time for antidotes has gen- 
erally passed before attention is excited ; to support the life, in the hope 
that it may survive the destroyer, is evidently the best thing which can, 
under such circumstance, be adopted. Chloroform, ether, and opium 
render the body insensible, and, by sparing the nervous system, certainly 
existence will be prolonged. Purgatives had better be withheld ; they 
may already have been administered in enormous doses ; fearful amounts 
of aloes destroy life without purgation being exhibited. 

Against alkalies there does not exist the same objection ; carbonate 
of magnesia, carbonate of soda or of potash may, in quantity, be mixed 
with gruel and horned down ; both opium and ether may be blended 
with the drink. Should the pulse be low, a drachm of carbonate of 
ammonia may be added to each dose of the other ingredients. Should 
corrosive sublimate be in any degree suspected to be the agent em- 
ployed, mix one dozen eggs with the other components; these will in 
no way detract from the operation of the drench. 

The mixture should be given in as large quantities as the animal can 
be induced to swallow. The gruel should be quite cold, and one quart 
should constitute a dose. No bleeding should be permitted ; the abstrac- 
tion of blood promotes absorption ; to prevent the absorption of the 
poison is the present endeavor. The following draught contains all that 
can be recommended, so long as ignorance of the actual poison it is 



ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



149 



desired to counteract, exists. When the information is positive, of 
course Morton's Toxological Chart will be a far better guide than any 
observations the author has ability to offei*. 

Sulphuric ether and tincture of opium ... Of each three ounces. 
Carbonate of magnesia, of soda or potash . . Four ounces. 
Gruel (quite cold) One quart. 

To these may be added, should the pulse be of a sinking character : — 
Carbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

If corrosive sublimate is known to have caused the agony, one dozen 
raw eggs ought to be blended with the drench. 

Use discretion in the administration; but repeat the drinks as often 
and as quickly as can be accomplished without adding to the distress of 
the horse. Regard the state of the animal, and, if weakness be present, 
take time when giving the drench. Should delii'ium be displayed, do 
not trust to the natural functions; employ Read's pump, with the horse 
catheter attached, and inject, with all dispatch, the whole quantity at 
once through the nostril. 




HOW TO GIVE PHYSIC, WHEN THE USUAL MODE OF ITS EXHIBITION IS ATTENDED WITH DANCER. 

The symptoms of poisoning are various ; they arc also modified by 
the strength upon which they act. The annexed list, however, contains 
the general appearances by which poisoning is announced, though the 
whole of the symptoms are never simultaneously exhibited : Loathing 
of all food ; extreme thirst ; redness of the nasal and conjunctival mem- 
branes; discharge of ropy saliva; frequent eructations, which smell 
pungently fetid; colic, rolling on the ground, pawing, striking at the 
abdomen, etc. ; tucked-up flanks ; heaving ; panting ; small, quick pulse ; 
superpurgation; violent straining; passing of mucus in large quanti- 
ties; protrusion and inflammation of the opening; glances at the abdo- 
men; prostration of strength; convulsions; madness and death. 



150 CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

And now, whence is derived the source of this evil ? It springs from 
the ignorance of the age. Is it not, at the present day, a common 
saying, that "intelligence goes begging, while handicraft finds employ- 
ment ?" Goodness, education, and industry cannot, at this time, insure 
the bread which will support existence. The cunning and the knowing- 
ness of the uninformed is much preferred. There is no mystery in the 
groom's office which might not be acquired in a week. The horse would 
fare better and be more safe in the custody of a person who possibly 
might sympathize with its solitude and appreciate its disposition. A 
higher class of servants would involve a higher rate of wages. But 
these might be paid, and notwithstanding, the horse proprietor be, iu 
the long run, an evident gainer. To put the wounds inflicted on the 
sensibility of a feeling man out of the question, it is a heavy misfortune 
to look upon three or four valuable horses stretched out in death. Add 
to this, there are other accidents that ignorance, without malice, com- 
mits, and all of which must be paid for by the master. Then there are 
the petty frauds and understandings in which cunning delights, and all 
of which are indulged at the master's cost. On the other hand, there is 
the certainty, or all but certainty, that intelligence would perform its 
duty. The horses would thrive better and last longer when confided 
to proper custody. The losses, attendant upon ignorance, would be 
avoided, — not to mention the ease of mind secured by confidence in the 
probity of the person to whom authority is intrusted. What a mockery 
it is, to cry up education and then to shun the educated ! A stimulus 
would be given to the ignorant, when it is recognized that the informed 
will be alone engaged to fill offices of trust. 

CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

This affection is more general than is commonly understood. The 
horse being unable to vomit, of course the first positive proof of dis- 
ordered stomach cannot be exhibited. Thus, little attention is generally 
paid to its digestion, when primarily diseased. 

Chronic gastritis is usually said to be provoked by rearing upon sour 
or soft land ; but well-bred animals are very often subject to the malady. 
The ailment is frequently first displayed at the period when the services 
are esteemed most valuable, or between the fifth and sixth years, long 
after the mode of rearing must have ceased to operate. The symptoms 
are various, and hardly ever alike. The stomach may affect the nervous 
symptom ; then, its complications become difficult to disentangle. The 
afiTection is mostly declared by an irregularity of bowels and a capricious- 
ness of appetite. The animal starts off violently purging. The loose- 
ness stops as suddenly as it commenced. Obstinate costiveness then 



CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 



151 



sets in, and each state can be traced to no obvious reason. The straw 
or litter may be eaten ravenously, but all the wholesome provender ob- 
stinately refused. The dung shows the condition of the appropriating 
functions ; it crumbles upon the slightest force being imposed ; it appears 
to consist of fibers not agglutinated together. Sometimes it is coated 
with mucus, and always smells abhorrently. A dry cough may be pres- 
ent ; the visible membranes are pallid ; the mouth feels cool ; the breath 
is tainted ; the eyes are sunken ; the respiration is catching ; the belly is 
pendulous; the anus is lax and prominent; the coat dry and ragged; 
while the body quickly becomes emaciated. 




A HORSE WITH CHRONIC GASTRITIS INDULGINO ITS MORBID APPETITE. 



The slightest exertion produces a thick and copious sweat. The 
symptom, however, which is most remarkable, when the cleanly habits 
natural to the animal are considered, is the peculiarity of the appetite. 
The rack and manger are generally neglected ; but every unnatural or 
oflfensive substance, within reach of the extended jaws, is devoured with 
avidity. Woodwork has largely disappeared. Soil and stones have 
been removed from the stomachs of creatures destroyed for incurable 
disease. Either of the substances last named, however, are usually 
spared, so long as a morsel of plaster, a portion of mortar or of brick, is 
within reach. Animals, when in the field, will leave the grass and enter 
any ditch to gnaw at bricks and mortar. When confined, they will, 
under the morbid influence of this affection, employ themselves for hours 
searching for a morsel of either among the straw. 

The old custom of purging and bleeding for a case of this kind is posi- 
tively injurious. It is better to administer bitters, alkalies, and seda- 
tives; — the first, to amend the appetite; the second, to correct the 
acidity of the morbid secretion; the third, to destroy the uneasy sensa- 
tion which provokes too many of the symptoms. 



162 BOTS. 

Powdered mix vomica ...... One scruple. 

Carbonate of potash One drachm. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 
Or, 

Strychnia . . • . Half a grain. 

Bicarbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Sulphate of zinc Half a drachm. 

Extract of gentian and powdered quassia . Of each a sufficiency. 
Give, morning and night. 

One of the above balls may be given daily. When their benefits seem 
exhausted, give, instead of a ball, half an ounce each of liquor arseni- 
calis, the same of tincture of ipecacuanha, with one ounce of muriated 
tincture of iron and of laudanum, in a pint of water. Also, damp the 
food and sprinkle magnesia freely upon it. Then, as the strength im- 
proves, introduce sulphuric ether, one ounce ; water, one pint, daily ; and 
ultimately change this last for a quart of good ale or stout. 

Before concluding, there remains to point out the cause of this lamenta- 
ble aflection. Ignorance views each part of the body as distinct ; it 
cannot see the various components are connected, and, in the mass, 
constitute one whole. Thus, medicine appears to the uninformed as 
thrown away, when internally administered for a skin disease. So it 
may to such persons appear strange how the air inhaled can disorder 
the digestion 1 To those better informed, however, it will only seem a 
natural consequence that impure atmosphere, inspired day and night, 
should impair the body's health. It will, with such people, be recog- 
nized as likely that the disorder should break forth when the frame is 
on the eve of being matured. The cause of indigestion is close and un- 
healthy stables. What loss will instruct mankind, that they cannot 
enslave life and treat it according to their convenience ? Life has its 
natural rights : these cannot be disregarded — the requirements of breath- 
ing creatures must be fulfilled. The ability of the enslaver to use accord- 
ing to his pleasure, must not be selfishly regarded ; else nature is out- 
raged, and in its deprivation, pride learns the impossibility of forcing all 
things to conform with its inclinations. 

BOTS. 

No animal which has not been turned out to graze during the summer 
months can possibly be troubled with these parasites. Such annoyances 
form no light argument against the benefits accomplished by that which 
is in slang phrase termed "Dr. Gree)i." The appearance of the coat 



B T S. 153 

and aspect of unthriftiness, after a run at grass, generally declare bots to 
be present within the body. 

Uninformed persons are always desirous to possess some medicine 
which will destroy bots ; they wonder that science lacks invention suf- 
ficient to compound such an agent. An anecdote may probably dispel 
such astonishment. 

A patron of the Royal Yeterinary College was once conducted by a 
pupil through the museum belonging to that establishment ; the pair at 
last stood before the preparation of a horse's stomach, eaten through by, 
and also covered with, bots. 

"God bless my soul !" exclaimed the visitor, after the nature of the 
specimen had been explained. " What a spectacle ! What a myriad of 
tormentors ! And have you no medicine to remove such nuisances ? 
Can veterinary science discover nothing capable of destroying those 
parasites ?" 

" Why, sir," replied the student, " only look at that preparation. To 
my knowledge, it has been put up in spirits of wine, and corked air tight 
for two years. The creatures must be either very dead or very drunk by 
this time ; yet, as you witness, they hold on. What sort of physic could 
accomplish more than is already effected by the spirits of wine and close 
confinement ? I am at a loss to conjecture I" 

For the above, the author is indebted to the admirable lectures de- 
livered by Professor Spooner ; but the conclusion drawn by the student 
must be more than satisfactory. Bots, once within the stomach, must 
remain there till the following year, when, being matured, their hold of 
the lining membrane of the viscus will relax, and, in the form of a 
chrysalis, they are ejected from the system. No medicine can expedite 
the transformation. It has hitherto appeared easier to kill the horse 
than to remove the parasite. 

To the investigation of Bracy Clark, Esq., V. S., the public owe all 
their knowledge of the fly whence the bot is derived. The common 
parent, according to the above authority, is the oestrus equi ; and the 
author gladly avails himself of the original description by the above- 
named talented gentleman. 

"ON THE (ESTRUS EQUI, OR THE STOMACH BOT. 

" When the female has been impregnated, and the eggs sufficiently 
matured, she seeks among the horses a subject for her purpose, and 
approaching him on the wMng, she carries her body nearly upright in the 
air, and her tail, which is lengthened for the purpose, curved inward and 
upward : in this way she approaches the part where she designs to de- 



154 



BOTS. 



posit the egg ; and, suspending herself for a few seconds before it, sud- 
denly darts upon it, and leaves the egg adhering to the hair : she hardly 
appears to settle, but merely touches the hair with the egg held out on 
the projected point of the abdomen. The egg is made to adhere by 
means of a glutinous liquor secreted with it. She then leaves the horse 
at a small distance, and prepares a second egg, and, poising herself 
before the part, deposits it in the same way. The liquor dries, and the 
egg becomes firmly glued to the hair : this is repeated by these flies till 
four or five hundred eggs are sometimes placed on one horse. 




^ 



THE (ESTRUS EQUI. 

Copied from the Work on Bots, by Bracy Clark, Esq. 



1. The female fly about to deposit an egg. 

2. The male fly. 

3. The egg, its natural size. 

4. The egg, magnified. 



6. The newly-hatched bot. 

6. The hot full grown. 

7. The head of a bot magnified. 

8. The chrysalis. 



" The skin of the horse is usually thrown into a tremulous motion on 
the touch of this insect, which merely arises from the very great irrita- 
bility of the skin and cutaneous muscles at this season of the year, 
occasioned by the heat and continual teasing of the flies, till at length 
these muscles appear to act involuntarily on the slightest touch of any 
body whatever. 

" The inside of the knee is the part on which these flies are most fond 
of depositing their eggs, and next to this on the side and back part of 
the shoulder, and less frequently on the extreme ends of the hairs of the 
mane. But it is a fact worthy of attention, that the fly does not place 
them promiscuously about the body, but constantly on those parts which 



BOTS. 155 

are most liable to be licked with the tongue ; and the ova, therefore, are 
always scrupulously placed within its reach. 

" The eggs thus deposited I at first supposed were loosened from the 
hairs by the moisture of the tongue, aided by its roughness, and were 
conveyed to the stomach, where they were hatched : but on more minute 
search I do not find this to be the case, or at least only by accident ; for 
when they have remained on the hairs four or five days, they become 
ripe, after which time the slightest application of warmth and moisture 
is sufficient to bring forth in an instant the latent larva. At this time, 
if the tongue of the horse touches the egg, its operculum is thrown open, 
and a small active worm is produced, which readily adheres to the moist 
surface of the tongue, and is from thence conveyed with the food to the 
stomach. 

"At its first hatching it is, as we have observed, a small active worm, 
long in proportion to its thickness, but as its growth advances, it becomes 
proportionably thicker and broader, and beset with bristles. 

" They are very frequent in horses that have been at grass, and are 
in general found adhering to the white insensible tissue or coat of the 
stomach. 

" They usually hang in dense clusters to this white cuticular lining of 
the stomach, and maintain their hold by means of two dark-brown hooks, 
between which a longitudinal slit or fissure is seen, which is the mouth 
of the larva. When removed from the stomach by the fingers by a 
sudden jerk, so as not to injure them, they will, if fresh and healthy, 
attach themselves to any loose membrane, and even to the skin of the 
hand. For this purpose they sheath or draw back the hooks almost 
entirely within the skin, till the two points come close to each other ; 
they then present them to the membrane, and keeping them parallel till 
it is pierced through, they expand them in a lateral direction, and after- 
ward, by bringing the points downward toward themselves, they include 
a sufficient piece of the membrane, to remain firmly fixed for any length 
of time as at anchor, without requiring any further exertion. 

" These bots, as is also the case with two or three other species, pass 
the autumn, winter, and spring months in the stomach, and arrive about 
the commencement or middle of the summer at their full growth, requir- 
ing a twelvemonth fully to complete their structure." 

"ON THE (ESTRUS HEMORRHOIDALIS, OR FUNDAMENT EOT. 

" The part chosen by this insect for this purpose is the lips of the 
horse, which is very distressing to the animal from the excessive titilla- 
tion it occasions ; for he immediately after rubs his mouth against the 



156 



BOTS. 



ground, his fore legs, or sometimes against a tree, with great emotion ; 
till the animal at length finding this mode of defense insufficient, enraged 
he quits the spot, and endeavors to avoid it by galloping away to a 
distant part of the field ; and if the fly still continues to follow and tease 
him, his last resource is in the water, where the oestrus never is observed 
to pursue him. These flies appear sometimes to hide themselves in the 
grass ; and as the horse stoops to graze, they dart on the mouth or lips, 
and are always observed to poise themselves during a few seconds in the 
air, while the egg is preparing on the extended point of the abdomen. 






THE (ESTnUS HEMOr.KHOIDALIS. 

Copied from the Work by Bracy Clark, Esq. 

1. The female fly about to deposit an egg. 

2. The egg, magnified. 

5. The male fly. 



3. The hot. 

4. The chrysalis. 



"When several of these flies are confined in a close place, they have a 
particularly strong, musty smell ; and I have observed both sheep and 
horses, when teased by them, to look into the grass and smell it very 
anxiously ; and if they by these means discover the fly, they immediately 
turn aside and hasten to a distant part of the field. 

" I once saw in a meadow or field upon the clifi's at Margate, a fly of 
this sort teasing a horse that was confined to a small space by a spike 
stuck in the ground, to which a cord was tied. He could not get away 
from its attack, and became quite furious, for in kicking at the fly with 
his fore foot, which he did vehemently, he often struck the bone of the 
lower jaw, creating excessive pain ; for in that direction while grazing, 
the fly comes to the beard of the lower lip. 



BOTS. 157 

" The eggs of this species are difBcult to be seen upon the horse's skin 
or beard, owing to the agitation of the beast, and from the color of the 
egg being darlv like that of the skin of the horse. The animal has been 
generally too impatient, while undergoing this operation, to let me exam- 
ine them very well. I ascertained, however, its form by pressing one 
of these eggs from the abdomen. 

" The larva or grub of this species inhabits the stomach as the former, 
generally adhering to the white lining, and is disposed promiscuously in 
dense clusters, after the same manner; they may, however, be dis- 
tinguished from them by being in general smaller and longer in pro- 
portion to their bulk. 

" The larva of this species may be obtained from almost any horse 
that has been much the preceding year at grass, and exposed to these 
flies, and will be found during the summer months sticking more or less 
within the verge or opening of the anus, adhering to its soft lining, and 
producing considerable irritation and uneasiness. Indeed, I once well 
remember being on a tour of pleasure in the Isle of Wight, and ex- 
periencing much annoyance from these larvae. The little horse I had 
hired for the journey became so lazy and unwilling to go on, and moved 
so awkwardly, that I could not keep pace with my company, and I was 
at a loss how to proceed ; but on casually taking up the tail, I discovered 
three or four of these insects hanging to the rectum, and their removal 
instantly proved a cure." 

"For more ample particulars, the reader is referred to the book itself, 
which is entitled "An Essay on Bots in the Horse and other Ani- 
mals." It will, in the pages of the original work, be seen that Mr. 
Clark more than suspected the existence of other species of the same 
family ; but, as no positive knowledge has yet been gained, we must 
await patiently the inquiries of those to whom this branch of science 
belongs. 

However, the writer must dissent to Mr. Clark's conclusion, that 
" bots are harmless, if not beneficial." How far does such a supposition 
agree with the perforated stomach, preserved at the Royal Veterinary 
College ? How far does it accord with the ragged coat and unthrifty 
aspect by which the presence of the parasites is ascertained ? How, 
when crediting such a conjecture, are we to account for the horror ex- 
hibited by the horse at the approach of the fly ; and how can we interpret 
Mr. Clark's experience in the Isle of Wight ? 

Bots are known to be injurious ; healthy bodies are seldom troubled 
with parasites. The parched and innutritions grass of the summer's 
heat cannot support the life accustomed to artificially saved and carefully 
prepared food. It is the meanness of the master which dooms the slave 



158 CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

to starvation; he begrudges the keep of the animal, therefore, he dis- 
guises the ugliness of his feeling under a pretense of giving the horse a 
month's freedom and its natural food ! In spring, when the herbage is 
young, one hour night and morning might be excused ; but those hours 
must be before the flies are up, and after these pests are asleep. In the 
height of summer, when the grass has perished and the ground is hard, 
the health soon yields to constant exposure and to unwholesome food. 
The flies torment the animal, and from the shed it is often driven by its 
companions in the field. A large portion of the accidents which horses 
are liable to, occur while out at grass ; many an animal is released from 
the stable blooming and valuable ; it is, at the expiration of the month, 
brought home looking ragged, with a huge belly, and is never fit for a 
day's service subsequently. If the matter is to be regarded only in a 
money point of view, it would have been a saving to the owner to have 
paid a twelvemonth's keep, rather than lose his servant, and notwith- 
standing, afterward have to pay for food and treatment till experience 
had instructed him in the inutility of expecting restoration. But when 
the matter is considered in a moral sense, what right has that individual 
who has, for his own pleasure, accustomed a life to a particular form of 
diet, at his will, or for his convenience, to snatch the food from the creat- 
ure and drive it forth to gnaw at stalks which had shed their seeds, and 
to be exposed to all the variations of the season ? It is no excuse to 
talk about there being no work to be done while the master is at the 
sea-side ; the devotion of a life should have earned a brief support, and 
the gentleman whose avarice thinks otherwise has no just reason to 
complain of the punishment which the indulgence of his greed will 
probably insure. 

CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

Acute hepatitis is unknown among horses in England. The late 
Professor Sewell thought he had witnessed one case. Other people 
know they have not seen a single instance of such a disease. 

Chronic hepatitis is peculiar to maturity. Brewers' horses — huge 
animals, fattened upon refuse of the mash-tub, and which are paraded, 
in all the pride of obesity, drawing one small cask over the stones of 
London — are often attacked by this malady. All horses which consume 
much provender, without absolute regard to work, are exposed to it. 
Gentlemen's carriage horses are very liable to it. A private vehicle is 
started, and at first much used ; but after a time it is equally neglected. 
The individual does not want the carriage to-day, when the coachman 
comes round "for orders." Neither is it required on the next occasion. 
Often a week passes without the fashionable plaything being uncovered. 



CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 159 

The animals, during that time, depend on the groom for exercise. The 
coachman may be fond of his horses, and, in his ignorance, may think 
they cannot have too much rest, or himself too little work Let the 
master neglect his duty, and the servant soon follows the example. 

The word "duty" was employed in the last sentence. It is of an un- 
pleasant signification, and was used in its harshest sense. Kings owe a 
duty to their subjects ; the rich owe a duty to the poor. All authority 
has some obligation connected with it. There is nothing like perfect 
freedom in this world of dependence. Man is the king over living 
things. He may claim his rights, but he at the same time must adopt 
the weight of his office : he cannot assume the one and discard the other. 
A monarch is invested with dominion and authority over men ; but the 
stability of the throne is dependent upon the righteousness of the ruler. 
If he who wears the crown abuses his trust, he may possess " a right 
divine," but he is speedily without subjects. So, if man is unjust to the 
creatures ever which he is placed, nature snatches them from his grasp ; 
and he may be invested with every power, but he soon wants animals 
upon which to exercise it. 

View the matter in another light, as an affair only of worldly pru- 
dence. Knives, formed of the hardest steel, if purchased and put away, 
in a short time are worthless, because of rust. A house wears faster 
when untenanted than when properly inhabited. 

A horse cannot remain for days in the stable and retain its condition. 
The carriage proprietor has not only to find food, but he is equally 
bound to support the health of his animals, or the service for which he 
bargained will be rudely terminated. Too many do not think of this. 
Too many take out the carriage to-day, only because it accords with 
their convenience. All, however, complain of the uncertainty which 
appertains to horse-flesh. The frame of the horse is stronger than 
machinery; but it cannot resist the willfulness of human misrule. Let 
that man, whose stable troubles him, question his own conduct. Let 
him examine the house in which he has thrust life. Let him see to the 
servants he has engaged, and to the food for which he pays ; and after 
all, let him inquire into his own behavior: the error will be found, not in 
the creatures over which he exercises dominion, but in those who are 
invested with authority. 

If people will start carriages, the vehicle must be taken out every day, 
let the weather freeze, rain, or shine. The hard earth of sunshine is fre- 
quently more injurious to the feet than either cold or wet are to the 
body. The lady, when out visiting, has more than her own pleasure to 
consult; for all horses fed on the best and underworked, or retained 
standing long befoie the street door, are exposed to chronic hepatitis. 



160 CHRONIC HE TAT IT IS. 

The gentleman's delight is almost as liable as the brewer's pride. Even 
moderate food and too little work will engender the disease. The author, 
when he quitted the veterinary college, left in that establishment an 
Arab, which, from a year's stagnation, was obviously thus disordered. 

The primary symptoms are not well marked, and do not, generally, 
attract attention. The animal is dull and averse to move. It appears 
to have imbibed a fondness for the inactivity to which it has been accus- 
tomed. The appetite is either nice, altogether lost, or unscrupulously 
ravenous; the bowels are constipated; the dung is black, and coated 
with bilious-looking mucus ; it is friable, and imperfectly digested. If a 
white paper be pressed upon it, a greenish-yellow stain is imparted. 
The urine is scanty, and, commonly, highly colored ; while the pulse has 
a heavy beat, as though treacle, instead of blood, circulated within the 
artery. 

The signs which indicate a confirmation of the disorder are : the 
mouth feels cold ; the nasal membranes are unnaturally pallid ; the whites 
of the eyes are ghastly, displaying a yellow tinge; sometimes the horse 
looks at the right side ; usually, it lies upon the left ribs, but never for 
any long time ; tenderness may be exhibited, if the right side be pressed 
upon. However, the last symptom is rarely present, and lameness in 
either fore leg is seldom witnessed. 

The disease is, for the most part, obscure, and is best recognized when 
medicine has become powerless. If early detected, a limited, but suffi- 
cient supply of nutritious food; plenty of, but not exhausting labor, 
with a long course of iodine in alterative doses, are calculated to work 
some beneficial change. 

Iodide of potassium Two ounces. 

Liquor potassse One quart. 

Mix, and give two tablespoonfuls night and morning, in a pint of water. 

Commonly, however, bleeding from the liver is the earliest recognized 
indication of disease. Then the horse, with depressed head, is found 
standing before untouched food; often it staggers; sometimes it sup- 
ports itself against the partition to the stall ; it always maintains the 
erect position with extreme difficulty; the pupil of the eyes are enlarged ; 
if the hand be moved before the sight, the lid does not close; the vision 
is lost; the pupils are much dilated; the breath, denoting weakness, is 
short and catching; the jaw is pulseless, and the heart flutters; the 
visible membranes are deathly; and the bilious nature of the disorder is, 
in these last parts, apparent. Should the head, only for a minute, be 
raised, the animal threatens to fall. 

The first attack is seldom fatal, and possibly might, by proper usage, 
be recovered from. The bleeding, then, is from the substance of the 



CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 



101 



gland, and does not generally burst Glisson's capsule, or the first and 
fibrous covering of the liver. Glisson's capsule, however, is, by the pres- 
sure of fluid, bulged out. The hemorrhage stretches the peritoneum, 
which is the second or last envelope ; and nature, striving to repair the 
injury, causes the serous investment to inflame, — to become white, 
opaque, considerably thicker, and altogether stronger than in its normal 
condition. 




THE HEAD OF A HORSE SUFFERING FROM 
INTERNAL HEMORRHAQE. 




THE TEST FOR HEMORRHAOE FROM THE LIVER. 



There may be an indefinite number of attacks ; or the horse, possibly, 
may succumb to the first assault. Commonly, there are several fits of 
the same character. Treatment is generally adopted. A dose of aloes 
is given, though with what intention the author is not aware. Quiet is 
enjoined; and styptics, as sugar of lead, alum, etc., are administered; 
and the horse, commonly, under such treatment, seems to recover. 

It is, however, difficult to change a fixed habit, or to perceive the 
reason for an alteration after all danger has disappeared. The gentle- 
man again indulges his inclinations. The coachman, to keep up his 
horse's flesh, fills the manger; the master very rarely orders the carriage; 
now he can ride, walking is preferred for his own exercise. Soon, a 
second fit takes place ; this time, Glisson's capsule usually yields ; but 
the thickened peritoneum, although pushed farther out, still resists, and 
now remains the single stay between human perversity and certain 
death. 

With recovery, the former custom is again resumed; the man chooses 
to think a sick horse must require support ; the master pleases to imagine 
rest must be beneficial to an animal which has been seriously ill. 
Another fit ensues; no one is much alarmed this time. The people have 
become accustomed to the sort of thing ; men soon grow used to other's 

11 



162 CRIB-BITING. 

agony. However, something is now present which has not been wit- 
nessed before ; that circumstance rather disturbs the reigning equanimity ; 
the horse is evidently much disposed to quietude, but some hidden cause 
excites it; it rolls, flings itself down, struggles up again, paws with the 
fore feet, kicks with the hind legs at the belly, and breathes with much 
more difficulty than formerly. 

Often it lies upon the back for some minutes ; the result, when such 
symptoms are observed, generally is invariable. After death, the abdo- 
men is opened ; the cavity is full of black blood, which, commonly, does 
not coagulate ; though, should death occur upon the first attack, dark 
clots may be found among the intestines. 

With regard to the treatment, which the author approves, it consists 
of the drink previously recommended ; sufficient but nutritious food, and, 
above all things, abundant exercise. The horse should also be removed 
from the heated stable and allowed a large, roomy, loose box. Purga- 
tive medicine is too debilitating for such a disease; but the bowels 
should be regulated by green meat or by bran mashes, when such agents 
are required. 

CRIB-BITING. 

Nothing more forcibly illustrates the ignorance by which the horse is 
surrounded, than the manner any trivial but visible fact is magnified into 
vast and mysterious importance. The untutored always have active 
imaginations ; thus, what is at worst, in the author's opinion, the decla- 
ration of acidity within the stomach, is by most horsemen dreaded more 
than an actual disease. 

Cribbing' is very common among horses which have been long inhabit- 
ants of the stable ; the many hours of stagnation the domesticated horse 
is doomed to pass, may induce the animal readily to seize upon any soli- 
tary pastime. Or the perpetual consumption of oats and hay may dis- 
arrange the digestion, which, experience teaches, is in ourselves much 
benefited by a moderate change of diet. Or, the constant inhalation of 
close and impure air, such as will taint the clothes of the groom, who is 
much exposed to it, may disorder that part of the body which is the 
most sympathetic of the entire frame. 

Adopt which of these theories the reader may be inclined to, all of 
them can be brought to bear upon the horse so affected. That cribbing 
is a habit is seemingly proved by the young horse, stalled next to an 
old cribber, soon acquiring the custom. That cribbing is provoked by 
idleness, appears to be in some measure confirmed by the horse never 
exhibiting the peculiarity before it has been handled and become an 
occupant of the stable. That it arises from acrimony, induced by the 



CRIB-BITING. 1(]3 

food, is apparently shown by the colt, while at grass, never displaying 
the symptom. That it will be witnessed in the old horse, when turned 
ont for a month's run at grass, establishes nothing. The temporary 
visitor to the field may often be seen galloping toward some gate, which,^ 
having reached, the horse there commences a long game at crib-biting. 
This circumstance can settle nothing, except that the digestion is chron- 
ically deranged — the stomach, when thus affected, being peculiarly reten- 
tive of its morbid condition. 

Crib-biting consists in resting the upper incisor teeth against any 
solid or firm substance ; a fixed point is thus 
gained, and, after much effort, a small por- 
tion of gas is eructated. The perpetual 
emissions of heated air is, in man, one of 
the symptoms attendant on indigestion ; and 
the act, in the horse, appears to be impelled 
by something stronger than habit ; since the 
animal will leave the most tempting proven- 
der for its indulgence. 

The premonitory symptoms, moreover, 
seem to declare heartburn to be the cause 

of this much-dreaded indulgence. The ens- „ horse in the act of ckib-bit,ng. 
tom is always preceded by licking of the 

manger. If on that there should be iron, or should any part be cooler than 
the rest, to that particular spot attention will be paid. The licking of 
cold substances is a symptom of disordered stomach with other dumb 
creatures. It is prominently displayed by the dog when the viscus is in- 
flamed. But crib-biting may be prevented, if attacked during the pre- 
monitory stage. Any substance, which acts as a stimulant to the stomach, 
is said to be beneficial. Salt is known as an almost necessary condi- 
ment, aiding the bealthfulness of human food. The deprivation of salt 
was an old criminal punishment among the Dutch ; and a lump of rock- 
salt placed in the manger will often enable the horse's digestion to 
recover its lost tone. 

Crib-biting has, in submission to general opinion, been alluded to as a 
habit, learned within the stable. But may not that which man designates 
a habit in a dumb creature, be no more than the influence of one atmo- 
sphere acting similiarly on two bodies, both caged in the same stable ? 
The air is much more than inhaled. A large quantity is swallowed with 
the saliva. No slight amount is deglutated with the masticated food. 
The water is generally kept in the stable some hours before the horses 
are permitted to imbibe it. "Water has a large affinity for atmosphere. 
Air, therefore,' enters largely into the body, besides being continually 




164 CRIB-EITING. 

absorbed by the blood during respiration. And moreover, is it not 
strange that all horses, when indulging an imitative faculty, should always 
precede the display by the same licking of the manger, which assuredly is 
not learned, because that stage has passed before the young horse is placed 
near the one it is supposed to imitate ? Is it not also surprising, that 
applying the tongue to cool substances should, in other domesticated 
but dumb creatures, be a symptom of derangement of the stomach ? 

When the horse cribs, the manger is not bitten. The upper incisors 
are merely placed against the wood-work, and, from this fixed point, the 
animal strains backward the body; thereby, the muscles of the neck are 
the more readily excited, and a small portion of air, accompanied by a 
slight sound, is forced up a canal which does not of itself favor regurgi- 
tation. When the inability to vomit is considered, the necessity of some 
such stratagem, to relieve the stomach of its burning acidity, must at 
once be admitted. We are still further reconciled to the necessity which 
prompts the action, when the ease afforded to human dyspeptic subjects, 
by the expulsion of "the wind," is properly regarded. 

To relieve crib-biting, first attend to the atmosphere of the stables ; 
render that pure by ample ventilation. Place a lump of rock-salt in the 
manger; should that not effect a cure, add to it a large piece of chalk ; 
should these be unavailing, always damp the food, and, at each time of 
feeding, sprinkle magnesia upon it, and mingle a large handful of ground 
oak-bark with each feed of corn. Should none of these measures prove 
beneficial, treat the case as one of chronic indigestion or gastritis. 

Let every reader, however, remember dyspepsia is far easier acquired 
than eradicated or even relieved ; still, the vast majority of the fears 
entertained concerning crib-biting are perfectly groundless. The habit, 
certainly, does not round the edges of the front teeth ; neither does it 
predispose to spasm or to flatulent colic ; a horse that cribs may have either 
diseases ; so, also, do many animals which are free from the peculiarity. 
Cribbing can be no recommendation to a purchaser, although the writer 
cannot honestly point to the direction in which it is detrimental to the 
usefulness. The late Mr. Sewell had a brown horse : this creature was 
eighteen years old, and an inveterate cribber ; yet, it would trot nine 
miles an hour, for its own pace, without ever needing the whip. More 
than this, no horse master should require ; but let those who entertain a 
horror of crib-biting, pay extra attention to the means by which the 
indulgence can be prevented. 



CHAPTER YIII. 

THE ABDOMEN — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 




ENTERITIS. 

The nose turned forcibly upward in horses is only expressive of gen- 
eral abdominal disease. The author has witnessed this symptom during 
the earliest stage of enteritis. It is 
frequently exhibited when no distui'b- 
ance calling for treatment is known to 
be present, or can be subsequently ob- 
served. Still, because it is sometimes the 

earliest warning of intestinal disorder, "''~''''''*'"*^i^^'^">' 

all horses displaying such a peculiarity 
should receive pointed attention. 

t^ THE NOSE STRAINED VIOLENTLY UPWARD IS 

Enteritis is a fearful disease, creat- * general symptom of abdominal irri- 

' tation. 

ing the greatest possible agony. Aged 

horses are specially exposed to this scourge, which can rage with un- 
governable fury from the commencement, and consume the life in eight 
hours. Its causes, unfortunately, are in a great measure purely conjec- 
tural; such as drinking cold water, etc. etc. 

These incentives are formally recounted in books; but surely some- 
thing is wanted to complete the catalogue. If all the animals exposed 
to the operation of such provocatives were to have enteritis, two-thirds 
of the horses inhabiting Great Britain would be dead by to-morrow 
morning. The principal thing, therefore, is the predisposition; incline 
toward a particular malady, and any triviality may start up the disease; 
yet this predisposition we at present are too ignorant to recognize. 

A severe fit of colic, long continued, may end in enteritis. This is 
well known ; yet it was not the colic which induced enteritis ; but the 
real cause was that which originated the first affection. The predispo- 
sition must be present before the bowels would exhibit that inflammation 
into which the colic merged; the injudicious and cruel treatment most 
horses receive from those to whose service the life is devoted, may prob- 
ably be accused as the root of all these evils ; disease is the loudest 
proof that the life is stinted in some essential particular. The same 
food is placed before all horses ; one animal will, however, purge upon 

(1G5) 



166 ENTERITIS. 

exertion; labor, on the other hand, may constipate the fellow occupant 
of the same stable. When the same effect has produced such opposite 
causes, all the bodies cannot be alike; an old proverb asserts "that 
which is one man's food is another man's poison." The diet which sup- 
ports one animal in health may loosen or constringe its companion ; yet 
we are too ignorant to practically use such distinctions. 

Again, there is no practice more general than to load the rack and 
pile the manger after any uncommon toil has been endured. The prac- 
tice may originate in the best intentions ; but no intention can convert 
that which is evil into a positive good. The wretched animal is tempted 
to cram the stomach when excessive labor has weakened the vital func- 
tions. Horses which are brought home late at night do not usually 
receive much notice ; the grooms are sleepy and eager for their beds. 
The dressing of the animal, however much such attention might conduce 
to health, is consequently left to the following morning. Rapid motion 
quickens the circulation ; the blood is sent to the skin, and copious per- 
spiration is the result. However warm the stable may be, warmth only 
promotes evaporation; cold of the lowest degree results from evapora- 
tion ; the consequence is, the body of the quadruped speedily shivers ; 
the blood is repelled to the internal organs, the bowels are prepared for 
inflammation, and thus enteritis often follows upon the midnight return 
from a long journey. 

Moreover, when the frame is exhausted, rest is far more essential than 
food ; the nourishment then should be very light, and such as can be 
quickly swallowed. A quart of thick flour or of oatmeal gruel should 
be first offered after the return. When the cleansing of the animal's 
body is finished, another quart should be given; these will occupy little 
time in being put out of sight, and the administration need not interfere 
with the repose which is desired. The gruel being swallowed, a feed of 
crushed and scalded oats may be placed in the manger ; no hay should 
be allowed ; the wish is to sustain a debilitated body, not to blow out 
an idle stomach. Then the creature should, after being fully clothed, be 
left to itself, and no more nourishment be provided for that night. The 
danger of introducing substances into a stomach dead to its functions 
would thus be avoided ; nothing likely to irritate or to operate as foreign 
bodies upon the bowels would be set before the debilitated horse. 
Besides, the groom would be obliged to remain up for some space, and, 
as a good servant always finds time hang heavy when without occu- 
pation, the animal is more likely to be dressed before the man retires. 
Moreover, the clothes would prevent the cold which ensues upon 
unchecked evaporation. 

Constipation, if permitted to exist for any period, is always danger- 



ENTERITIS. 167 

ous ; hardened feces are one of the surest causes of enteritis. Disre- 
garding this fact, the endeavor of the immediate age seems to be to keep 
horses cheap. Strange mixtures are now substituted for wholesome 
corn, in which the grain and husk are mingled, the one supporting the 
strength, the other stimulating the bowels. It is folly to seek for profit 
from a life, and to stint the nourishment which feeds the strength, or to 
view cheapness as desirable where the service is unlimited. It is wicked 
to imprison a living being and then to regard it only in connection with 
our conveniences ; " much care and no spare " is a good stable proverb. 
The food makes the work; omnibus masters know this fact; their horses 
perform hard work and eat of the best, however abominably the gener- 
ality of these slaves were once lodged. The home of a London horse 
is mostly a miserable hole : heated only by fermentation ; too often un- 
drained ; nearly always without sufficient ventilation. The stall of such 
a building is large enough for the animal to stand in and not wide 
enough for the recumbent frame to rest in; the roof is low, and the re- 
fuse of the body is piled near the entrance. When will man learn that 
his interest is best consulted by the proper observances due to vitality 
in every form? A horse cannot be treated as though it were a jug; it 
cannot be placed upon a shelf and taken down when required. The 
functions which nature has placed within a beautiful and exquisitely 
framed body will, if thus regarded, soon become deranged. Sickness 
will soon cost more money than health would have required for its sus- 
tainment; and, in the end, he who strives to blend the animate and the 
inanimate will speedily find himself possessed only of the latter descrip- 
tion of property. 

The predisposing cause may, in most instances, be difficult to discover; 
but the premonitory symptoms of enteritis are well marked. The animal 
is dull and heavy. It may not notice aught about it, or it picks at its 
food ; repeated and violent shivering fits usher in the attack. When the 
above characteristic signs are observed, at once take away all hay and 
corn. Bandage the legs, which will be cold; clothe the body, and, if 
already dressed, loosen the surcingle. Litter well the stall or remove 
the horse to a loose box; give two or three drinks, one every quarter 
of an hour, containing sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one 
ounce; water, half a pint; and observe the animal without disturbing it. 
These symptoms are, however, generally unseen, because the groom is 
between the bedclothes while his charge is sufi'ering. 

The primary symptoms of decided enteritis are termed "colic" or 
"fret." Such words simply represent bellyache; but harm is done and 
valuable time lost, if the terms of the stable are accepted in any abso- 
lute signification. Grooms always have some invaluable nostrum hoarded 



1 68 ENTERITIS. 

up ; such people are proud of and confident in their secret knowledge ; 
they will lie rather than communicate the contents of their charm. With 
the best hopes the foolish servant will waste precious moments in use- 
less expectation, and watch for results from an injurious or worthless 
potion till the time when curative measures could have been effective 
has passed. Never permit the men who clean the horses also to admin- 
ister to their diseases ; the poor fellows may mean well, but they can 
have no knowledge which, in the presence of danger, can be beneficial. 

The primary symptom, to an uninformed observer, may simply an- 
nounce a mild fit of gripes. When the shivering has subsided, the 
horse rolls, plunges, kicks, etc. etc., as he does in spasmodic colic. The 
struggles, however, are less abandoned and far more mannered in inflam- 
mation of the -bowels, than in genuine spasm. The pain, moreover, 
which in enteritis accompanies all movements of the diaphragm, throws 
the labor of respiration upon the walls of the thorax. The ribs can 
only partially dilate the lungs; nature endeavors by quickening the 
motion to supply the deficiency. In colic, the breathing is at first only 
excited by the exertion ; it is deep and full. At the commencement of 
spasm, the mouth is moist and in temperature 
natural; during enteritis, the breathing is very 
short and the mouth is always hot and dry. 

The pulse is disturbed only as colic pro- 
gresses ; in enteritis it is quick, hard, and wiry, 
before the disorder is fully established. The 
term " wiry " well represents the kind of pulse 
which accompanies enteritis. If a thin metallic 
cord were to strike the finger ends somewhat 
gently, and about seventy times in a minute, it 
would impart the same sensation as is commu- 
coMMENCEMENT OF THE AT- nlcatcd by tho bcat of the artery during in- 
flammation of the bowels. Besides, pressure in 
colic seems to ease the anguish ; in . enteritis, the horse often cannot 
bear to have the abdomen touched. The last symptom, however, is 
not always present, neither is there one, save those characteristic of 
general inflammation, which is invariably to be observed. In abdominal 
disease, so many organs are influenced that everything becomes, in a 
vast degree, mystery and confusion. Notwithstanding this, pressure, in 
enteritis, never affords relief; sometimes, however, the hand placed upon 
the belly will elicit the most energetic response. The horse will kick 
with the hind leg, turn round the head, and violently snap the jaws 
together. Then he who applied so rude a test must stand out of the 
reach of the hind foot, at the same time watching the head. Thus all 




THE TEST FOR ENTERITIS AT THE 
COMM 
TACK 



ENTERITIS. 



169 



danger is readily avoided ; because the ears, the eyes, and nostrils of 
the horse express its intentions before these are carried into efifect. 




THE TEST OF PRESSURE TO THE ABDOMEN FOR. ENTERITIS. 



All the tests will, however, not warrant certainty. The heat and dry- 
ness of the mouth may proceed from bodily exhaustion ; the pulse, 
though highly suspicious, may merely denote general disturbance rather 
than declare the particular locality of a disorder. The peculiarity of 
the breathing may only express temporary faintness ; the resistance to 
pressure is common to many horses while in health, and the restrained 
method of the plunges may be consequent upon the absence of any in- 
citive to greater energy ; still, when all are put together, they imply a 
great deal. Faintness and exhaustion are not to be reconciled with a 
hard pulse ; the heat of the mouth and the resistance to pressure, espe- 
cially when united to the voluntaiy restraint 
imposed upon the motion, certainly warrant 
a strong inference, and sanction no belief 
that colic is the sufferer's complaint. Hap- 
pily, however, there remains a mode of 
assuring the most hesitating individual. 
The coat must be pulled off, the shirt- 
sleeves rolled up, and the arm be well 
greas«d or thoroughly soaped. About this 
there must be no false delicacy : in human 
surgery and in veterinary practice many 
things have to be surmounted which do not 
read well when described in cold print. In 
this instance, the intention is to relieve a suffering life ; the motive will 
elevate the act. The fingers of the right hand are to be compressed, 
while the left hand raises the tail ; the position is on the left side, as near 




A CERTAIN TEST FOR ENTERITIS. 



no 



ENTERITIS. 



to the feet as may be possible. Being there, the points of the compressed 
fingers are brought to bear upon the center of the anus; gentle and 
equable pressure is maintained until the resistance of the sphincter mus- 
cle is tired out; even then, no haste is warranted. Upon the hand 
penetrating the body, a cavity is entered ; here there is generally some 
dung, the removal of which constitutes what is called "back-raking." 
In enteritis, the excrement is hard, dry, offensive, in small and dark 
lumps, upon the surface of which lie streaks of white mucus. This being 
done, the arm must be regreased or again moistened with water, and the 
hand gradually advanced to ascertain the temperature of the intestines. 
If the health be undisturbed, the operator will be conscious only of a 
genial glow; should inflammation exist, the augmentation of the natural 
heat will be most decided. 

All is then certainty ; no further doubt is justifiable, and no additional 
symptom need be looked for. The nature of the case is determined, 
and should it be enteritis, every moment is indeed precious. Firstly, 
neither bleed nor purge. A particular kind of venesection, however, 
is allowed. Extract one quart of blood, and inject into the vein one 
pint of blood-warm water; a profuse purgation and perspiration almost 
immediately follows the disappearance of the fluid. Much uncertainty 
is thus spared; and two conditions, both favorable to recovery, are 
induced. 

For this operation a quart syringe should be employed ; a fine curved 
nozzle should be affixed to it for the convenience of inser- 
tion down the vein; the tube connected with the handle 
should be marked to show when a pint has been forced out 
of the instrument. 

The reason for using a larger and a less handy machine 
than seems absolutely necessary to perform a delicate opera- 
tion is, because nearly all syringes suck up a portion of 
air, which, when the instrument is almost empty, comes 
forth. Now breath or atmosphere, or gas of any kind in- 
jected into a living vessel, speedily destroys life. To pre- 
vent so fearful an accident the enlarged capacity of the 
syringe is recommended. « 

The water being injected, should the pulse regain its 
inflammatory character, mingle half a drachm of aconite 
root, in powder, with every subsequent antispasmodic 
draught. The ethereal drenches must be continued, be- 
cause pain of the intestines is always obstinate, and we cannot be cer- 
tain how far spasm may cause the agony, seeing that a form of colic 
alwavs attends on enteritis. 




THE SYRINGE TO 
INJECT INTO 
THE JUGULAR 
VEIN DURING 
ENTERITIS. 



ENTERITIS. l-jl 

Aconite root, in powder Half a drachm. 

Sulphuric ether Three ounces. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

Extract of belladonna One drachm. 

(Rubbed down in water) One pint and a half. 

These drinks should be administered as the pain, pulse, and the gen- 
eral appearance seem to demand them ; they may be employed every 
quarter of an hour if requisite. When the pulse is quiet, withdraw the 
aconite ; should the pain subside, remove the belladonna. The ether 
and laudanum may be diminished as the horse appears to be more com- 
fortable. 

Should the symptoms denote a dead, lingering pain in the abdomen, 
after the administration of the eighth drink, procure some strong liquor 
ammonia. Dilute this with six times its bulk of cold water. Saturate 
a stout cloth with the dilution ; lay the cloth upon several folds of rug ; 




THE APPL'CATIOX OF AN AMMOXIACAL BLISTER I\ ENTERITIS. 



obtain four resolute men with not very sensitive eyes or noses, and let 
them hold the cloth close to the animal's abdomen. 

The action of the ammonia must be from time to time observed. It 
is a most powerful agent ; in certain states it can blister in ten minutes ; 
in other conditions, it requires half an hour to take that effect. It is 
very uncertain ; but, if held too long, it may dissolve the skin and leave 
behind a fearful sore, which will establish a lasting blemish. He who 
employs it will understand he is using that which must not be abused. 
The removal of the cloth allows the ammonia to evaporate, and, conse- 
quently, at any moment effectually checks all further action. 

When all is accomplished, should the progress of the disease be effect- 
ually stayed, but the cure not be complete, sprinkle on the tongue the 
following powder every second hour : — 



172 ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Calomel Half a drachm. 

Opium One drachm. 

But stop all the other mediciae as soon as the subsidence of the symp- 
toms will permit. The food is now of all importance: bran, in enteritis, 
is positive poison; mashes are not to be thought of; linseed is too feed- 
ing for an inflammatory subject. The same objection may be taken to 
gruel ; hay tea, or pails of boiling water poured upon a pound of flour, 
must sustain the body for the first day after recovery ; on the next day, 
a feed of boiled roots may be introduced, but not the whole quantity 
at once ; that must be divided into three meals. Then the amount may 
be doubled, and thus the full bulk of provender be by degrees attained ; 
afterward a few crushed and scalded oats may be mixed with the rest at 
each meal ; but it should be some time before hay is permitted to irritate 
and distend the lately inflamed surfaces. 

Enteritis is a fearful disorder ; he who has witnessed one death by that 
terrible malady should have received an awful rebuke. The post-mor- 
tem examination best describes the violence of the affection. The in- 
testines, generally the large intestines, are black and swollen; often in 
color they approach to a green. Their structure is destroyed; they tear 
upon a touch, and are so loaded with inflamed blood that one division 
of the bowels may form no inconsiderable burden for a strong man. 

The above directions, the intelligent reader will fully comprehend, are 
not pronounced in any absolute sense. No two cases of any violent dis- 
order are precisely similar; the forms, therefore, prescribed in these 
pages admit of variations. They are given only as suited to the gener- 
ality of attacks; they may be lessened or augmented, as circumstances 
demand or as discretion dictates. It would be as easy to make a shoe 
which should fit all feet, as to name medicines or point out the quanti- 
ties which should be adapted to all maladies. 

ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Diarrhoea may be banished from the list of diseases to which horse- 
flesh is liable. Certain animals will purge during work; others will 
scour upon the smallest change of diet; such peculiarities, however, 
mostly check themselves ; they demand very slight or no remedial treat- 
ment. Unlike diarrhoea in the human subject, they never terminate in 
death ; but dysentery is as violent as diarrhoea is mild. The length and 
size of the intestines render any disease within them a very serious 
affair. There are two kinds of dysentery, the acute and the chronic; 
the acute form of disease will constitute the subject of the present 
article. 



ACUTE DYSENTERY. 



173 



The cause of acute dysentery is always some acrid substance taken 
into the stomach — generally aloes, combined with some preparation of 
croton ; other substances will, however, induce an inflammatory purga- 
tion. Such a result may ensue upon the injudicious use of arsenic, cor- 
rosive sub'. 'mate, tartar emetic, blue-stone, etc. etc. Many of these 
substances will be eaten if mixed with the corn — the instinct which pro- 
tects the lives of other animals being destroyed in the horse by ages of 
domestication. Others may be ignorantly administered with the very 
best of intention. 

The symptoms often are obscure at the commencement; there is ab- 
dominal pain ; so there is in most intestinal disorders. The agony may 
readily be mistaken for the pangs attendant on spasmodic colic. On 
other occasions, the suffering may be slight, not even sufficient at first to 
destroy the appetite. No poison acts upon two bodies in precisely the 
same manner ; violent purgation is generally the first marked sign which 
makes known the nature of the disorder. The feces soon become mere 
discolored water; the thirst is then excessive; the stench is most offen- 
sive ; the pulse, from being hard, shortly becomes thick and feeble, and 
ultimately it is intermittent ; the countenance is haggard ; the position 
of the body expresses abdominal pain. Perspirations break forth in 
patches ; tympanitis starts up, and death speedily ensues. 

It is of little use to inquire, while the animal is suffering, what has 




A HORSE StJFFERINO FROM DRASTIC POISON. 



provoked the superpurgation ; it is then most desirable, if possible, to 
remove the effect. The best chance of accomplishing this is by destroying 



174 ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

the pain that exhausts the strength, thereby affording nature the better 
chance of vanquishing the irritation. Ether, opium, belladonna, chalk, 
and catechu present the best means of doing this. These agents, when 
combined, support the body, allay the anguish, and check the purgation ; 
blended with thick linseed tea, which will in some measure supply the 
mucus lost to the bowels, they therefore form a good drink for most 
occasions. 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

Liquor potassee Half an ounce. 

Powdered chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of catechu One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

Give, throughout the acute stage, every quarter of an hour. 

At the same time cleanse the quarters, plait up the tail, and throw up 
copious injections of cold linseed tea. Expect the horse to become 
greatly prostrated when amendment commences. The entire of the irri- 
tating agent must be expelled from the body before improvement can be 
witnessed. The subsequent recovery is announced by a pause in the 
symptoms; the disease appears to be stationary, whereas previously 
everything denoted a hastening termination. 

That pause is one of suspense, for no one can say what will follow ; some- 
times the cessation of agony precedes immediate dissolution ; sometimes 
recovery dates from that event. The animal, upon the slightest change 
being exhibited, must still be assiduously attended. Care must never 
cease ; and, after recovery is confirmed, the food for a week must con- 
sist of linseed tea, hay tea, and gruel. On the expiration of the week, 
a few boiled roots may be added, three of the drinks previously ordered 
being administered every day. Do not bother about the bowels ; no 
matter, should the animal be constipated for a fortnight subsequent to 
the thorough emptying of acute dysentery. Fpon the termination of a 
fortni"-ht, stop all medicine, and allow some crushed, scalded oats and 
beans- withdraw some of the slops as the solids advance; but let a full 
month expire before a drop of cold water or a mouthful of hay are per- 
mitted to be swallowed. 

To escape the loss of so large a piece of property as a living horse, 
it is imperative the notion should be abandoned which asserts that be- 
cause the horse can swallow most opening medicines with impunity, a 
strong purgative cannot otherwise than benefit the animal; the deduc- 
tion is not fairly drawn. But not to follow up too closely so lame a 
prey : aloes is the general purgative in the stable ; it is a drug which 
should never be intrusted to the hands of the groom. The difference 



CHRONIC DYSENTERY. Ho 

between the necessary and the poisonous dose is too chjse for the un- 
educated to comprehend it; more horses have been slaughtered with 
aloes than have perished from all the other poisons conjoined. Yet 
grooms are particularly fond of this medicine ; the dangerous drug 
enters into every ball which is popular in the stable; no matter how 
opposite the end desired may be, in the groom's opinion aloes must 
produce it. Like the majority of the uneducated, the stable-man re- 
joices in a strong purge. Tenesmus is his delight; he loves to see six- 
teen or eighteen full motions, and then he cannot comprehend why the 
horse is weak, since the physic passed beautifully through him ! 

Of all persons living, grooms generally are the most prejudiced and 
the worst informed. All advice is disregarded; should the master 
speak, the groom shakes his head, and, after the lecture is ended, in- 
quires of himself, "what the old buffer can know about it?" Here is 
the curse of horses ! Gentlemen transfer them to the custody of the 
uneducated. The groom is accepted as an authority; the master asks 
for and is mostly governed by the opinion of an inferior. No other 
servant possesses such a power ; no domestic more abuses his position ; 
the carriage and the harness maker, the corn merchant, and the veteri- 
nary surgeon all pay this person five per cent, upon the employer's bills; 
nothing comes on to the premises but the man claims a profit from it; 
nothing leaves the stable but is regarded as his perquisite. He thus, 
while occupying a situation of trust, has an absolute interest in the ex- 
travagance of the expenditure. Wear and tear of the articles over 
which he watches brings to him actual emolument; his interest and his 
duty are at war, and when a weak person has to decide the battle, it is 
easy to understand on which part the victory will be declared. 

CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

This affliction is not so common among horses as it is with cattle; 
neither is it so frequent at the present day as it appears to have formerly 
been. Once it was termed "molten grease," from an unfounded notion 
that liquid fat was discharged with the feces. Now it is known that what 
our ancestors took for grease is no more than the mucus, which is ex- 
pelled during every form of severe intestinal irritation. 

The cause of chronic dysentery among horses is not well understood. 
It is said to follow diarrhoea; but such an explanation seems to con- 
found the commencement of one disorder with the establishment of 
another disease. Hoi'ses having chronic dysentery are, generally, old 
animals, which are subject to the will of a very poor or a very penurious 
man. They are badly kept, and may have to grub a scanty living from 



176 CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

lanes and hedgerows ; also, they are goaded to hard work upon watery 
food and sour grass. In such cases, disturbance of the bowels should 
be early attended to. The food should be immediately changed. Good 
sound oats and beans should be freely given, while the following drink is 
administered thrice daily : — 

Crude opium Half an ounce. 

Liquor potass* One ounce. 

Chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of all-spice One ounce. 

Alum Half an ounce. 

Mix with a quart of good ale, stir briskly, and give. 

Should the primary symptom not be attended to, profuse purgation 
may ensue without excitement ; but always will happen upon any exer- 
tion or the drinking of cold water. Violent straining often follows; 
the belly enlarges; the flesh wastes; the bones protrude; the skin is 
hide-bound; the visible mucous membranes become pallid; weakness 
increases; perspiration often bursts forth without occasion; the horse 
will stand still for hours, not grazing, nor seemingly being conscious that 
grass was within its reach. 

At length a living skeleton alone remains of that which was a horse. 
The eyes have a sleepy, sad, and pathetic expression ; the head is often 




A HORSE SCFFERINO UNDER CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 



turned slowly toward the flanks; the sight remains fixed for some 
moments upon the seat of pain; the horse stands on one spot, or only 
changes it when the bowels are about to act; colic at length sets in, 



.'.mt 



CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 177 

though frequently it is present earlier ; and the wretched quadruped then 
fades speedily away. 

It is a general practice to turn animals suffering from chronic dysen- 
tery upon some village common. The horse is put there with scanty 
food and no shelter, under a plea of humanity, or "to give the old 'oss a 
last chance." There can be no feeling in placing a diseased animal far 
away from sight or help, where it must pine, shiver, and starve, in a 
dreary solitude. 

Supposing the affected life to be claimed by a generous master, either 
of the following drinks may be given, thrice daily : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum Three ounces. 

Liquor potassae Half an ounce. 

Powdered chalk One ounce. 

Tincture of catechu One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

Choloroform Half an ounce. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Carbonate of ammonia One drachm. 

Powdered camphor Half a drachm. 

Tincture of oak bark One ounce. 

Cold linseed tea One pint. 

The above drinks may be changed, as either appears to have ceased to 
operate. The food should be of the best and lightest description. Boiled 
roots, boiled linseed, boiled rice, crushed and boiled malt, etc. etc.; no 
hay. The body should be frequently dressed, and always clothed. A 
good bed ought to be allowed. The lodging must be well drained and 
roomy. 

Yet, after all this trouble, a speedy cure is not to be expected; and 
rarely does an old horse, should it recover, prove highly useful. How 
sad, however, is that condition where the continuance of the life is made 
conditional upon the service of the body — where interest is the only 
motive which permits existence I No sympathy to be anticipated in suf- 
fering ; no pity in disease ! The only feeling that actuates the custodian 
is a cold regard for the gain which the jaded being can yet bring him. A 
life of usefulness, years of toil, injuries sustained and accidents sur- 
mounted, — all cannot win a day's respite from the doom which attends 
the creature whose exertions in man's service have led to the disablement 
of its powers. Such, however, is the fate of the horse in England, which 
land specially boasts it is a "Christian country." 

Chronic dysentery is the inheritance which the horse earns from being 
subjected to the dominion of man. Excessive labor, filthy lodging, and 

12 



Its ACITES. 

innutritious diet are the causes. Each of these causes increases as the 
age advances. 

Prior to its domestication, the horse might not have found on every 
spot an abundance of excellent fodder ; but then it was at liberty to seek 
a better fare in another place. Man has taken away all power of choice ; 
he forces the creature to toil, and obliges it to eat only that which par- 
simony may afford to place before it. When so vast and so absolute a 
power is claimed, it becomes a positive duty to see the mere animal 
necessities are satisfied : it is cruel folly to tax the powers and to stint 
the body. It is a crime to undertake a trust and then confide the fulfill- 
ment of its responsibility to an ignorant inferior. It is a sin to seize on 
life and to neglect the prisoner you hold in captivity. Where existence 
is claimed as a property, and animation is forced to wear out being in 
labor for the master's profit, surely the least obligation the superior could 
own should be the provision of ample lodging and fitting sustenance 1 
Both are withheld from the aged horse. 

ACITES, OR DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN. 

In the horse, acute peritonitis is unknown, save as the result of oper- 
ation ; then its fury takes possession of the cavity and generally refuses 
to yield to medicine. It is different, however, with chronic peritonitis, 
which, though not a common disorder, is too often encountered to be 
esteemed a rare disease. It is, when early noticed, tractable; but the 
earlier symptoms are generally not understood. The first sign is a rag- 
ged coat and a tender state of the abdomen ; the horse, which was pas- 
sive previously, now shrinks from the curry-comb ; snaps and kicks at him 
who dresses it. Such actions are viewed as denoting a return of spirit. 
Intending to encourage the favorite quality of the stable, the flank is 
violently struck or slapped by the servant; and the indication forced 
from a dumb animal by agony, is by grooms regarded as the proof of 
reviving animation. 

Masters should, in justice to themselves if from no higher motive, visit 
the stable more frequently than is their custom. The horse is all gentle- 
ness and simplicity ; a groom only knows less about the animal than a 
child, for he has acquired notions which induce him to misinterpret plain 
actions. Every owner of a stable should learn to feel and count the 
horse's pulse ; he should be acquainted with the normal standard and its 
healthy character; chronic peritonitis might then early be discovered. 
The pulse under this disease is hard and small, it vibrates about sixty 
times in a minute. The head is pendulous; the food is oftener spoiled, 
rather scattered about than eaten; the membranes are pale and the 



ACITES. 179 

mouth is dry; pressure upon the abdomen elicits a groan, and turning 
in the stall always calls forth a grunt. 

When such symptoms are observed, the food should be small in bulk, 
but nutritious in quality; no work should be imposed; the medicine 
should be tonic and alterative. 

Strychnia A quarter of a grain, worked gradually up to one 

grain. 

Iodide of iron Half a drachm, worked gradually up to one 

drachm and a half 
Extract of belladonna . . One scruple. 
Extract of gentian ... A sufficiency. 
Powdered quassia ... A sufficiency. 

Make into a ball ; give one at night and at morning. 

Small blisters should succeed each other upon the abdomen; but as 
these cases are always tedious and very much depends upon the consti- 
tution of the animal, charity alone should propose such a disease for 
treatment, as the general termination of the malady is incurable dropsy 
of the abdomen. 

Acites offers a good illustration of the loss inhumanity brings down 
upon man, and of the gain which would attend a loftier conduct. Chronic 
peritonitis attacks aged animals ; such horses are used only for harness 
purposes. Few masters inquire what propels the carriage, so the vehicle 
gets over the ground. The affected quadruped cannot drag its own 
body; thus more than double duty is cast upon the sound steed. The 
single horse has not only to draw the entire carriage and its load, but it 
also has to pull along its disabled companion. Servants frequently hide 
defects, hoping that time will remedy them, or dreading the reception 
proverbially given to the bearer of bad tidings; thus the sound horse 
ultimately fails, while the sick animal is rendered worse by violent 
exercise. 

However, with the honesty which seems to prevail in and around the 
stable, the diseased horse is often sent to the nearest market. The pro- 
prietor, under some strange quibble of conscience, sells to another that 
which he is convinced is worthless. A rich master vends and a poor 
man buys ; the cheatery of such a bargain is obvious, but to such results 
always tend a violated contract. The natural contract between man and 
horse is outraged ; a conditional gift is construed to imply an uncondi- 
tional bestowal. The terms are warped according to the convenience 
of the receiver ; the possibility of any obligation being implied is never 
suspected. A few, and very few good people, from feeling only fulfill 
the conditions of the bond ; but kindness, when bestowed upon the horse, 
is regarded as a weakness and a gratuity. From the highest to the 



180 



ACITES. 



lowest, none think that all of animated creatures are born with rights ; 
no one behaves as though domesticated animals were only intrusted to 
the care of man. Yiolation of moral conditions begins the evil, which 
ends in cheatery and robbery of one another. 

The symptoms which announce that the serous membrane has effused 
water into the abdomen are a want of spirit; constant lying down and 
remaining in one position for a long period ; perpetual restlessness ; 
thirst; loss of appetite; thinness; weakness; enlarged abdomen; con- 
stipation and hide-bound. 

The enlargement of the belly has something peculiar in it ; the swell- 
ing lies toward the inferior portion of the abdomen. Near the loins 
there is apparently an empty space ; if the hand be placed on the en- 
largement, and another person strikes the belly on the opposite side, a 
sense of fluctuation can be distinctly felt. If the horse be thrown upon 
its back, the swelling will, with the change of position, gravitate toward 
the loins. At length small bags containing fluid depend from the chest 
and the inferior surface of the belly. Should the disease be suflFered to 
progress, the sheath and one leg generally enlarge ; the hair of the mane 




A HORSE ■WITH ACITES, OR ABDOMINAL DROPSY. 



breaks off and is easily pulled out. "Where once hung the tail now re- 
mains little more than the dock with a few scattered hairs. Ultimately 
purgation starts up, which terminates the suffering. 

Of course, after effusion, all treatment is powerless — creatures in the 
last stage of dropsy presenting sights which the mind shudders to con- 
template; objects of this kind are sometimes to be seen on commons in 



INFLUENZA. 181 

the neighborhood of London. They are turned out to die miserably 
under the plea of humanity; the utmost limit of cruelty is justified or 
made pleasant by a pretense to sympathy. The poor horse literally 
starves; were there food to eat, the remaining strength would not serve 
to collect it. Still the proprietor is so very humane he cannot endure 
to destroy the property he has paid for; the poor animal is therefore 
thrust forth to cheaply live, or to die without trouble to its owner. 

INFLUENZA. 

This affection may rage throughout the kingdom, or it may be located 
upon a very circumscribed spot. In a disorder so eccentric, it is very 
difficult to decide the question whether or not it is contagious ; it com- 
monly runs through the stable in which it appears; but it does not in- 
variably attack every animal within the building. It may, in a large 
edifice, first seize the horse nearest the door, then travel to the stall 
farthest from the entrance ; thus it skips about without regularity, and 
often spares many individuals. 

Occasionally influenza fixes upon an animal when in the field ; but it 
is a more probable visitant of the stable : this is a seeming proof that 
the contagion does not reside in the air, since the atmosphere is as much 
as possible excluded from every mews. We may conjecture it is not 
dependent upon any vapor exuding from the earth, since the creatures 
whose noses are nearly always in contact with the herbage are, of all 
others, least liable to the aflTection. 

It is terrible to contemplate the suffering and loss of life which have 
been consequent upon the errors of mankind. Influenza is regarded as 
a new disease ; a new name deceives the world, though it is more than 
probable that a disorder of a low, febrile, and typhoid character has 
prevailed among animals for many ages. IS'ature has, for thousands of 
years, been striving to enforce the self-evident truth that man is by 
moral obligation bound to provide for the welfare of the animal he 
enslaves. His gain or the inclination of his will can be no argument 
against the fulfillment of so plain a duty ; the implied contract, the com- 
mon parent of all living things, has been emphasizing with sickness and 
with death ; all has been to no purpose. Cunning men have been 
employed, and nostrums have been invented to maintain misrule ; wealth 
has been sacrificed and ruin endured, to uphold an unrighteous cause; 
but the voice of nature pleading for her children has not been under- 
stood. 

Even at this day the old fault is to be met with on every hand ; it is 
exhibited by the rich as well as by the poor, by the highly educated and 



182 INFLUENZA. 

by the very ignorant. In every place exist horses of fabulous excellence 
in the master's opinion, imprisoned within walls which exclude the vital 
air. The roof may not permit the animal's head to be raised, the sides 
may not allow the body to be turned ; the fumes within the walls shall 
oppress the lungs and sting the eyes of the man who enters the build- 
ing ; yet within a circumscribed space, so foul and pestilential, the horse 
is doomed to exist. Then the animal's disease is heard of with surprise, 
and its death is lamented as a misfortune ! 

What cause is there for grief or for wonder, if impurity does gener- 
ate disease and death ? What need has man to ape the martyr, because 
influenza starts from the contamination which by human will has been 
created ? The pest once originated sweeps onward, nor can mortal ex- 
clamation nor mortal sorrow check the course of the destroyer ; all fall 
alike before the scourge. The filthy and the cleanly alike are stricken ; 
yet neither masters nor legislators can draw wisdom from the visitation. 

In influenza there is no difficulty in pointing to the structure afi'ected ; 
it would, however, be hard to allude to the part which was not involved. 
The weakness and stupidity which accompany the affection declare the 
brain and nervous system to be diseased. Local swellings show the 
cellular tissue to be deranged; heat and pain in the limbs and joints 
announce the serous, the ligamentous, and osseous structures implicated. 
The muscular and digestive functions are acutely disordered ; the rapid 
wasting of the flesh demonstrate the absorbents are excited. There is 
no portion of the body which can escape the ravage of influenza. 

Youth, or rather the approach of adultism, is the favorite season of 
the attack, which is most prevalent during the spring time of the year. 
There is, however, no pei'iod or any age which are altogether exempt 
from its influence. 

All kinds of treatment have been experimented with. Bleeding, 
purging, blistering, setoning have all been tried, and each has destroyed 
more lives than the whole can boast of having saved; experience has by 
slow degrees shown the inutility of active treatment. Bold measures, 
as those plans are termed which add to another's suffering, commonly 
end in hydrothorax or water on the chest. 

It is difficult to determine when the first symptom of influenza is 
present. The author is indebted to the acuteness of Mr. T. W. Gow- 
ing, Y. S., of Camden Town, for a knowledge of a marked indication 
declarative of the presence of influenza. A yellowness of the mucous 
membranes, best shown on the conjunctiva or white of the eye, is very 
characteristic. Whenever the sign is seen and sudden weakness re- 
marked, caution should be practiced, for it is ten to one that the pes- 
tilence is approaching. Influenza is a very simulative disorder; it has 



INFLUENZA. 



183 



appeared as laminitis ; disease of the lungs is, perhaps, its favorite type. 
Bowel complaints are apt to imitate each other ; blowing generally com- 
mences such disorders. But when influenza is prevalent, let the body's 
strength and the yellowness or redness of the membranes be always 
looked to before any more prominent indication is particularly observed. 

The other symptoms — which, however, are very uncertain, as regards 
any of them being present or absent — are pendulous head, short breath, 
inflamed membranes, swollen lips, dry mouth, enlarged eyelids, copious 
tears, sore throat, tucked up flanks, compressed tail, filled legs, big 
joints, lameness and hot feet. Auscultation may detect a grating sound 
at the chest, or a noise like brickbats falling down stairs at the wind- 
pipe ; whenever this last peculiarity is audible there is a copious nasal 
discharge. Sometimes one foot is acutely painful, and, notwithstand- 
ing the weakness, the leg is held in the air. Purgation has been wit- 
nessed, although constipation usually prevails, and the animal generally 
stands during the continuance of the disorder. 

Move the horse slowly to a well-littered, loose box; mind the door 




CONPIRMED INFLUENZA. 



does not open to the north or to the east. No food will be eaten ; but 
suspend a pail of well-made gruel within easy reach of the animal's 
head. Let the gruel be changed or the receptacle replenished at stated 
periods, thrice daily; sprinkle one scruple of calomel upon the tongue 
and wash it down with a drink composed of sulphuric either, one ounce ; 
laudanum, one ounce; water, half a pint; do this night and morning. 
Should the weakness be excessive, double the quantity of ether and of 
laudanum contained in the draughts. Watch the pulse — it always is 
feeble, but at first has a wiry feeling. So soon as the character of the 
l^ulse changes or the wiry sensation departs, which generally happens 
when the nasal discharge becomes copious and cough appears, one pot 



184 ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 

of stout may be allowed, and some nourishing food, as bread, on which a 
very little salt has been sprinkled, may be offered by hand. The horse 
feels man to be its master and appreciates any attention bestowed upon 
it in the hour of sickness. It will stand still to be caressed, and advance 
its hanging ears to catch the accents of sympathy. 

Beware of what is termed active treatment; a purgative is death dur- 
ing influenza. It generally will induce the prostration from which the 
animal never recovers. Formerly it was common to see four strong 
men propping up a horse during its endeavor to walk. But the lower 
class are fond of joking one with another. Such was the usual result of 
their employment on these occasions. In the fun the horse got but par- 
tial support, while the noise distressed the diseased sensibilities. Horses 




A COMMON SIGHT DUBINQ RECOVERY FROM INFLUENZA, YTHEN ACTIVELY TREATED. 

have large sympathies, and readily comprehend the attentions dictated 
by kindness. The disregard which people too often display toward 
sickness in an animal acutely pains the creature : its effects may be told 
by the altered character of the pulse. Whereas the voice, when softened 
by pity, often causes the heavy head to be turned toward the speaker; 
and the muzzle of a diseased inmate of the stable has frequently reposed 
long upon the chest of the writer. 

ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 

These are of various kinds. They differ materially, but they all pro- 
voke inflammation of the vast serous membranes lining the abdominal 
cavity; and their symptoms are therefore too nearly alike to be distin- 
guished from each other. A mere list of such perils must astonish the 
reader; and his pity will be excited when he learns that such accidents, 
numerous as they are, generate the most violent agony. These injuries 
consist of ruptured diaphragm, ruptured stomach, ruptured spleen, 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



185 



ruptured intestines, strangulation, intro-susception, impaetment, and cal- 
culus. 

Ruptured diaphragm is attended with a soft cough, and symptoms 
of broken wind — occasioned by the almost sole employment of the 
abdominal muscles — with sitting on the haunches. Still, Professor 




^2^<^ 



AN UNNATURAL ATTITUDE, INDICATIVE OF SOME ABDOMINAL INJURY. 



Spooner, of the Royal Veterinary College, mentioned in his lectures 
that an animal belonging to the Zoological Society lived two years 
with a ruptured diaphragm, through which the bowel protruded into 
the thorax. In the horse such a lesion is speedily fatal. 

A position so unnatural as that of sitting on the haunches may 




A POSITION OFTEN ASSUMED BY THE HORSE SUFFERING FROM ABDOMINAL INJURY. 

denote something very wrong to be present ; but it gives no definite 
direction to our ideas. Animals are known to have assumed it, and 



186 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



subsequently to have recovered. The diaphragm when it yields gener- 
ally gives way upon the tendinous portion. Through the opening the 
peristaltic action soon causes the bowels to obtrude ; and death is pro- 
duced by displacement and strangulation of the intestine. The posture 
previously delineated is common to all injuries of the abdomen; so is 
the opposite peculiarity — or the horse remaining upon its chest. The 
last attitude may not, to most persons, appear so strange, seeing that 
the creature assumes it whenever it rises or lies down. Then, however, 
it is only momentary. When it denotes abdominal injury, it is com- 
paratively of long continuance. At the same time the breathing and 
the countenance bespeak the greatest internal anguish. 

Ruptured spleen is the gentlest death of all those which spring from 

abdominal injury. The spleen 
is at present a mystery to veter- 
inary science. It has been dis- 
covered after death of enormous 
size; but the symptoms during 
life had not led to the expecta- 
tion of any very serious disorder. 
Ruptured spleen and ruptured 
liver are both productive of 
similar symptoms ; both answer 
to the same tests, and the term- 
ination of each is alike. 

Ruptured stomach mostly 
happens with old and enfeebled 
horses. Night cab-horses are very liable to it ; so also are animals of 
heavy draught. The drivers often neglect to take out the nose-bags. 
The horse's most urgent necessities always yield to man's passing con- 
venience; so the creature has to journey 
far or to remain out till the empty stomach 
grows debilitated. It is then taken home 
and placed before abundance. Elsewhere 
this folly has been commented upon. It 
was shown that light food and perfect rest 
were the best restoratives for an exhausted 
frame. The drivers, however, refuse to be 
taught. The horse eats and eats. No con- 
traction of the exhausted stomach warns 
the animal when to stop. The viscus is crammed. Then digestion 
endeavors to commence. With rest the organ recovers some tone. The 
muscular coat of the sac starts into action, and, encountering opposition, 




TEST FOR HEMORRHAGE FROM THE SPLEEN. 




A RUPTUKBD STOMACH. 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



18t 




the vital powers exert themselves with the greater energy. The stomach 
is thus burst by its own inherent force ; the largest division of its vari- 
ous structures always being exhibited by the elastic peritoneal covering 

the lesser rent being left upon the inelastic mucous lining membrane. 

Excessive colic, followed by tympanitis, are the only general symptoms 
which attend ruptured stomach. The history of the case, if it can be 
obtained, is, however, a better guide ; but there are too often interested 
motives for distorting the facts. Vomition through the nostrils has 
been thought to particularize ruptured stomach; but experience has 
ascertained that vomition may be induced by any lesion which is suf- 
ficiently great to cause revulsion of the system. 

Intro-susception is always preceded by colic. The last-named affec- 
tion causes portions of the bowels to contract. Such 
contracted intestines become small, firm, and stiff. 
They are, while in that condition, by the peristaltic 
action readily pushed up other portions of the canal, 
which are of the natural size. The entrance of the 
contracted bowel acts upon the healthy tube as if it 
were a foreign substance. Contractibility is ex- 
cited. The displaced and intruding bowel is grasped 
as by a vice, and the accident is of that kind which 
provokes its own continuance. Cure is hopeless, 
while consciousness remains ; the only hope is the administration of 
chloroform in full and long-continued doses ; thereby to arrest vitality 
and chance the release of the imprisoned gut. While intro-susception 
lasts, all passage is effectually stopped. Inflammation soon commences, 
and the symptoms of outrageous colic are exhibited. However, such 
is not always the case. Mr. Woodger, 
veterinary surgeon of Bishop's Mews, 
Paddington, attended a case of this de- 
scription, in which the symptoms present 
seemed to denote congestion of the lungs. 

Invagination is here used to express 
the entrance of one entire division of the 
bowels within another. In this sense it 
is chiefly witnessed upon the large intes- 
tines ; whereas intro-susception is mostly 
present upon the smaller bowels. The mesentery must be ruptured 
before such an accident can take place ; but then the agony attendant 
upon the previous derangement is so powerful that it is impossible for 
the hugeness of this lesion to increase the violence of the torture ; nor 
is there any sign by which so sad a catastrophe can be predicated. 



THE INTESTINE DIVIDED SO 
AS TO CLEARLY SHOW THE 
NATURE OF INTRO - SUS- 
CEPTION. 




THE CCECUM INVAlilNATED (VIiHIN THE COLON, 
AND BLACK FROM INIJSNSE INFLAMMATION. 



188 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 



Before strangulation can possibly occur, the mesentery must be sun- 
dered. It almost always happens to a portion of the small intestines. 
The bowel, freed from its support, soon involves itself with numerous 
complications ; or the rent membrane may twine round a knuckle of the 
gut. 





A KNUCKLE OF INTESTINE STRAN- 
GULATED BY THE RCPTUEED 

MESENTERY. 



RUPTURE OF THE SMALL 

INTESTINES. 



The above illustration, however, shows one of the simplest forms in 
which the accident can possibly take place ; but no person, however 
acute, could distinguish between strangulation from rupture of the intes- 
tines. The last generally occurs upon the smaller bowels, and happens 
to the interspaces upon the superior portion of the tube, between the 
vessels which nourish the digestive canal. The ingesta is consequently 
forced between the layers of the mesentery. The most intense anguish, 
inflammation, and death are the consequences. 

Calculus or stone may be present, either in the stomach or in the 
canal. Those in the stomach are of small size ; those within the intes- 
tines may attain the weight of more than 
twenty pounds. Those of the stomach are 
always smooth, as also may be those of the 
bowels. To the intestines, however, there 
are common three kinds of, or differently 
composed calculi : the triple phosphate or 
the earthy ; one formed of the minute hairs 
which originally surrounded the kernel of 
the oat; and another composed of dung, 
held together by the mucous secretion of the 
bowel. Any of these calculi may, as the 
size increases, gradually stretch the intestine ; thus forming a living sac 
within which the stone abides. While it remains there, the food passes 
over it and no injury is occasioned. But by any movement it is likely 
to be dislodged and thrown into the healthy channel.' There it is firmly 
grasped with such force as to produce rupture of the intestine, and the 
hold is only relaxed after inflammation has ended in mortification and in 
death. The bowels, in truf^, are impacted by calculus. The passage 




THE SAC FORMED IN THE BOWEL; THIS THE 
CALCULUS HAS QUITTED, WHILE ANOTHER 
PORTION OP THE INTESTINE HAS SO 
FIRMLY GRASPED IT AS TO RUPTURE IT- 
SELF. 



ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 189 

is stopped. However different the causes of abdominal injury may 
appear, they are each generally characterized by the severest possible 
abdominal pain. This symptom is often so violent that the agony con- 
ceals all other indications; or if any others can be exhibited, they are 
so partially shown and displayed for so very brief a space as not to per- 
mit of their being rightly interpreted. 

It is very desirable that every one should witness a powerful horse in 
its agony. No sti'onger means could be found for enforcing such a les- 
son than the sufferings which spring from abdominal injuries. When 
this is proposed it is not intended the person should look on misery 
only so long as the spectacle stimulated his feelings ; but that he should 
watch hour after hour and behold the afflicted life resigned under the 
pressure of mighty torment. Were such a sight once contemplated — 
were man fully conscious of how brimming with horrible expression 
every feature of the horse's frame can become — the thought of anguish 
wrenching life out of so huge a trunk would surely compel the better 
treatment of a gentle, inoffensive, and serviceable slave. Ruptured 
stomach a little forethought would prevent. The triple phosphate cal- 
culus is common among millers' horses, which are foully fed from the 
sweepings of the shop. But if man will oblige duty to bow before con- 
venience, or make it secondary to expense, the misery he inflicts will 
surely in justice recoil upon himself. 

Abdominal injuries are probably the sources of the greatest agony 
horse-flesh can endure. To account for the generality of such lesions, it 
is merely necessary to regard the places in which horses are housed and 
the manner in which they are fed. In the owner's estimation a horse 
seems to be a horse, in the same sense as a table is a table. Both ob- 
jects are necessary to his comfort, to his pride, or to his profit. Neither 
have higher claims. Both are to be used and to be flung aside. The 
one is to be cleaned and repaired at the cheapest rate ; the other is to 
be lodged and supported at the lowest cost. When either grow old in 
his service, each is equally to be discarded. The two things apparently 
rank in man's estimation as simple chattels subject to his will and made 
to please his fancy. That there is a huge life, a breathing sensibility 
attached to one of these articles ; that it delights in its master's pleasure, 
and, if properly trained, it is capable of sharing its master's emotions, 
is so preposterous a sentimentality as to be "with scorn rejected." 

Nobody speaks of the horse as a creature enjoying man's highest 
gift — as a living animal. Everybody talks about his or her constitu- 
tion; but no one imagines the horse has a constitution which can be 
destroyed. All horses are expected to thrive equally. They are re- 
garded as things to be used, and to be sold or packed away when not 



190 



WORMS. 



required. They are obliged to live by man's direction, and are expected 
to display the highest spirit whenever they are taken abroad. Should 
it be astonishing if the framework nature has so exquisitely balanced 
occasionally becomes deranged under man's barbarous and selfish sway ? 
Is it cause for legitimate wonder if, under so coarse a rule, disease some- 
times assumes strange forms, or attacks parts which are beyond the 
reach of human science ? 



WORMS. 

Worms are of various kinds; but all, according to the notions of 
ignorance, announce their presence by particular symptoms. The para- 
sites, when really present, can, however, cause no more than intestinal 
irritation, the continuance of which may give rise to several disorders. 
Chronic indigestion is by the groom always recognized as a "wormy 
condition." 

The only certain proof of the existence of such annoyances is visible 
evidence. Upon suspicion, careful horse proprietors may administer 
certain medicine, because some physics only cool the body and cleanse 
the system. The generality of worm-powders are, however, too potent 
to be safe. Like all drugs sold as "certain cures," they are so powerful 
that they frequently do more than remove the disorder which they pre- 
tend to eradicate — for they also destroy the animals to which they are 
administered. 

Having premised thus much, the author will now commence to describe 
the usual form of irritation to which worms of 
different kinds give rise. 

The parasite especially inimical to colts is 
the taenia or tape-worm. It is mostly per- 
petuated by the farmer's prejudice, which pro- 
cures foals from dams that are done up for 
work: which starves the mother till her pro- 
duce runs by her side, and which attempts to 
rear young stock upon the sour grass of a pub- 
lic common. Both sire and dam should be in 
perfect health if a valuable colt is desired : 
neither can be too good. The mare should not, 
during gestation, be "turned out" to distend 
the abdomen with watery provender — to have 
the stomach and intestines filled with bots — to 
allow filth and excretions to accumulate upon 
the coat and to <iheck the healthy functions of the skin. Gentle work, 
only sufficient to earn the stable-keep, will injure no animal. The mare 




THE T^NIA OR TAPE-WORM. 



WORMS. 



191 




^•^^ 



IRRITATION CAUSED BY WORMS. THE NOSE RUBBED 
VIOLENTLY AGAI.\ST A WALL. 



will rather be benefited by modet^ate exercise, and by also having all the 
food and attention to which she has become habituated. But to expose 
a mare during the summer months, and to stint the animal during the 
winter season, can produce nothing which shall repay the expense of 
rearing. The little progeny before it sees the light is the inhabitant of 
an unhealthy home ; after birth the mother's secretion is thin, poor, and 
watery. It neither satisfies the cravings of hunger nor can nourish a 
body into growth. Ill health in the young encourages parasites. The 
colt soon becomes the prey of the t^nia. 

The young when afflicted with the above parasite may not die, but 
they are reserved for a miserable 
and a useless life. The develop- 
ments are checked. The foal grows 
up with a large head, low crest, 
tumefied abdomen, and long legs. 
If it be a male it cannot be oper- 
ated upon before the fourth year; 
even then it is cast only because 
there is no hope of further improve- 
ment. The appetite during the 
long time of rearing is more than 

good; the ribs, nevertheless, are not covered with flesh; the dung is 
not well comminuted — it is friable and sometimes partially coated with 
slime ; the anus projects — occa- 
sionally it is soiled by adherent 
strips of tenacious mucus, al- 
most like to membrane ; the 
coat is unhealthy; the breath 
fetid ; the animal may rub its 
nose violently against a wall or 
remain straining it upward for 
a considerable time ; the eye 
becomes unnaturally bright ; 
the colt begins to pick and bite 
its body, often pulling ofi" hair 
by the mouthful. 

All this agony and the depri- 
vation- of a life depends on the 
parsimony of man. Women 
know that the body during certain times requires extra nutriment. 
Thus delicate ladies in peculiar states are accustomed to take "hearty 
pulls" at porter or at stout. It is very general for physiologists to 







A COLT PICKING THE HAIR FROM IT3 LEO BECAUSE OP 
■WORMS. 



192 WORMS. 

argue from animals up to man. Why should not the custom be reversed ? 
Why should not veterinary science reason from the human being down 
to the horse, and thereby instruct the stolid in the necessary require- 
ments of the mare during particular states ? " Stint the dam and starve 
the foal" is certainly a true proverb. 

Taenia is best destroyed by the spirits of turpentine in the following 
quantities : — 

A foal Two drachms. 

Three months old Half an ounce. 

Six months One ounce. 

One year One ounce and a half. 

Two years Two ounces. 

Three years Three ounces. 

Four years and upwards Four ounces. 

Procure one pound of quassia chips. Pour into these three quarts 
of boiling water. Strain the liquor. Cause the turpentine to blend, by 
means of yolks of eggs, with so much of the quassia infusion as may be 
necessary. Add one scruple of powdered camphor to the full drink, and 
give every morning before allowing any food. 

This probably may kill the worms ; but as every link of the taenia is 
a distinct animal of both sexes, and capable of producing itself, the eggs 
must be numerous. For the destruction of these, nourishing prepared 
food is essential, such as gruel, scalded oats, etc.; but little or no hay. 
At the same time a tonic will be of all service. Take 

Liquor arsenicalis From one to eight drachms. 

Muriated tincture of iron . . . From one and a half to twelve drachms. 

Extract of belladonna .... From ten grains to two drachms. 

Ale or good stout Half a pint to a quart. 

Mix. Give every morning to the animal — strength being proportioned to age — 
till the coat is glossy. 

Lumbrici are more dreadful to contemplate than they appear to be 





THE LUMBRICU8, A WORM NOT AN ASCARIDIS, A STE0N0ULU8, 

PECULIAR TO HORSES. ONE- NATURAL SIZE. NATURAL SIZE. 

FOURTH OF THE NATURAL SIZE. 

fearful in reality ; specimens are not rare which measure eighteen inches. 



ASCARIDES AND STRONGULI. 



193 



This worm preys upon the weakly, be they old or young. One taenia 
will produce immense disturbance; whereas numbers of the lumbrici 
will cause little or no effect. Whoever has remarked the dunghill in a 
knacker's yard has seen it to consist quite as much of lumbrici as of 
excrement. Mr. Woodger, of Bishop's Road, Paddington, removes these 
pests with ease and certainty. The above-named veterinary surgeon 
gives two drachms of tartarized antimony with a sufficiency of common 
mass, as a ball, every morning, until the parasites are expelled. 



ASCARIDES AND STRONGULI. 
These parasites inhabit the large intestines. They produce extraor- 



a. The sole opening bj' which 
air can enter. It is placwl upon 
the ground and guarded by a 
valve; so that air, after having 
entered, cannot leave the in- 
strument by this opening. 

h. The box containing lighted 
tobacco, through which all air 
drawn into the instrument must 
necessarily pass. 

c. The pump. 

d. The end of the tube through 
which the fumes are driven. 




To load the instrument : un- 
screw the lid of the box. Fill 
that with lighted tobacco. Fix 
on the lid again. Kest the air 
entrance upon the ground, and 
move the handle of the pump 
up and down. By this move- 
ment the air is first drawn 
through the lighted tobacco 
into the pump, and is then sent 
through the tube. 



THE APPARATUS BT MEANS OF WHICH A TOBACOO SMOKE ENEMA IS ADMINISTERED. 



The 



dinary ravages, notwithstanding their insignificant appearance. 
last is difficult to eradicate because of the extent 
of bowel which it infests The stronguli will 
sometimes eat through important structures, but 
the ascarides are always located within the rec- 
tum. Then, most medicines being deprived of 
activity, are inoperative before they reach the 
last locality. For this reason it is best to com- 
mence the treatment with injections of train oil. 
Should these be followed by no result at the ex- 
piration of a week, resort to a solution of catechu ~, 
— one ounce to the quart of water : give that 
for seven mornings. Upon the eighth, give the 
animal a mash, and at night administer a mild ^°°!!'!.^.!?A'rr?TvT! wA'f'''' 

' O >liJljL>lLl AUAliXoi A >^ ALL, 

physic ball ; about four drachms of aloes and one 

drachm of calomel. Repeat the medicine if required ; but if not, resort at 
once to the arsenicalis and ale or stout, which was recently recommended. 

13 




194 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



Tobacco smoke enemas are sometimes efficacious when all the pre- 
vious measures are powerless. Frequently the posterior irritation is 
distressing. It is sometimes so provoking that the horse will thereby 
be induced to destroy its personal appearance by rubbing the tail and 
quarter violently against the wall, or any rough surface within its reach. 
In such cases the injections of train oil are most likely to prove bene- 
ficial ; the local itching may be in some measure removed by inserting 
up the anus a portion of the following ointment night and morning : — 

Glycerin Half an ounce. 

Spermaceti .... One ounce. 

Melt the last and blend. When nearly cold, add — 

Mercurial ointment (strong) Three drachms. 

Powdered camphor Three drachms. 



SPASMODIC COLIC— FRET.— GRIPES. 

Spasmodic colic is an affection which every loiterer about a stable, 
from a postboy to a farrier, imagines he is able to cure. Many attacks 
no doubt would depart of themselves ; others might be removed by sim- 
ple motion. Nevertheless such possible remedies should never be trusted. 
Neither should gin and pepper, red pepper and peppermint, hot beer 
and mustard, rubbing the abdomen with a broomstick, kneading the 
belly violently with a man's knee, or any popular measure be permitted. 

Such remedies are likely to get rid 
of colic by causing enteritis. When 
inflammation of the bowels thus origi- 
nates, it is generally fatal, the strength 
being exhausted and the powers of 
nature worn out by the previous dis- 
order — not to mention the preposses- 
sion of the spectators, which prevents 
the more serious disease from being 
early recognized. 

Any cause may kindle colic. It is 
common after fast driving ; hence 
many gentlemen take colic drinks to 
Epsom races. That affection which in ladies is designated spasms, in 
gentlemen is called pain in the bowels, and in children is known as the 
bellyache, is, in the horse, colic ; and from the largeness of the animal's 
intestines, the affection probably provokes more anguish in the quad- 
ruped than the same disorder does in the entire human race. Under 
whatever term it may be recognized, spasmodic colic is never more than 




DIAGRAM EXPLAINING HnW THE BOTVELS ARE 
AFFECTED BY SPASMODIC COLIC. 

a a. The healthy Intestine rendered ranch 
more vascular by the blood being spasmodically 
driven out of other portions of tlie tube. 

6. A portion of tlie tube much diminished by 
the presence of abdominal spasm. 

c. The pallid appearance, demiting the place 
which colic has recently attacked. 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



195 



partial contraction of the muscular coat of the intestines. The action 
so compresses a part of the tube as to expel the blood and render the 
natural pink of the tissues, for some time after the disorder has departed, 
a glistening white. The blood, driven from particular spots, is forced 
into those parts in which no disease exists. Excess of blood predis- 
poses to inflammation ; hence we probably trace the reason why, if spas- 
modic colic be suffered to continue, the affection is so apt to end in 
incurable enteritis. 

Colic most often attacks the small intestines, though the disease is by 
no means confined to those parts. It first occurs on a limited space ; 
presently it vanishes altogether, and afterward reappears on some dis- 
tant portion of the alimentary canal; or, in other words, colic dodges 
about, its attacks becoming more numerous and the intermissions shorter 
as the period of its commencement grows more distant. Change of 
water, change of food, getting wet, fatiguing journeys, are all likely to 
originate it; but, perhaps, it is most frequently exhibited when no known 
cause is in operation. Aloes, however, are proved to be among the 
surest provocatives of this disease. Many horses cannot swallow pure 
aloes in any form, without being severely griped. For such animals, 
the following drench is recommended, instead of the above-named drug 
in substance : — 

Sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each . , One ounce. 

Compound tincture of aloes made with diluted spirits of wine . Five ounces. 

Cold water One pint. 




THE FIRST STAGE OP SPASMODIC COLIC. 



If greater strength be requisite, obtain it by the addition of tincture of 
gentian, every ounce of which is equal, when combined, to one drachm 
of aloes. 

Colic always commences suddenly ; it starts into life ready armed for 



196 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



mischief. The animal may be apparently well and feeding. Without 
visible cause the head is raised and the occupation ceases. Should the 
pain last, the hind foot is lifted to strike the belly, and the fore leg 
begins to scrape the pavement. The groom, who has merely left to pro- 
cure a pail of water from an adjacent pump, on his return discovers his 
charge exhibiting evident signs of uneasiness. As the man stares, won- 
dering what can be the matter, the horse is pawing and the nose slowly 
points to the flank. All then is explained. Fret is the matter, and it 
would be "/re^," should the disease prove to be of a very different 
nature. 

While the horse is being watched, every indication of disturbance 
may disappear. The countenance tranquilizes and the nose is again 
inserted into the manger. A few minutes elapse and the pangs are 
renewed. The second fit may last longer and be slightly more severe. 
Then another, but a shorter period of ease follows : thus the visita- 
tions will ensue upon spaces of entire exemption from anguish. The 
recommencement of agony usually is denoted by a disposition to lie 
down. The animal crouches; next it turns round as though the inten- 
tion was to stretch out the limbs ; but suddenly the erect attitude is 
assumed — the design, lately so nearly executed, having been forgotten. 
Then pawing and striking at the abdomen quickly follow; and while 
the horse looks toward the flank, a morbid fire is perceptible in the eye. 




THE SECOND STAGE OF SPASMOKIf COLIC 



No relief being afforded, the pains lengthen, while the intervals of 
tranquillity become shorter. The action grows more fierce and the aspect 
more wild. The pawing is more brief, but more energetic ; often during 
its continuance the foot is raised and violently stamped upon the ground. 
The animal now does not attempt to feed, but stares for a minute at a 
time, with an inquiring gaze, toward the abdomen. At length, without 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



191 



warning or preparation, the body leaps upward to fall violently upon 
the floor. The shock is often fearful; but the animal in its torment 
appears to derive ease from the violence. Being down, it rolls from side 
to side and kicks about, until one of its feet, touching the wall, enables 
the horse to poise itself upon the back. 

Should relief not be quickly provided, colic soon passes into enteritis. 
The pulse, from being unchanged at first, then simply quickened by pain, 




THE THIRD STAGE OF SPASMODIC COUC. 



grows harder and more wiry. The intermissions are lost, and though 
the anguish may for a space be less, yet in its continuity it is more 
exhausting. 

Ou the appearance of colic, the morbid action ought to be imme- 
diately counteracted. Aloes in solution is generally administered; such 
a medicine, unless guarded as before recommended, is by no means ad- 
visable. Sulphuric ether and laudanum should be in the possession 
of every horse proprietoi*. One pint of each — the two being mixed 
together, with one ounce of rank oil floating on the top to prevent 
evaporation or mistakes — will be perfectly safe in any household. The 
mixture should, however, be well shaken before it is employed : two 
ounces of the combination in half a pint of water constitutes an excel- 
lent colic drink. Give three of these, one every ten minutes. If no 
improvement be displayed, double the quantity of the active agents 
and continue the drenches at the period stated : these medicines should 
be persevered with until the symptoms disappear. 

Turpentine, as an enema, is an excellent adjunct. Mr. T. W. Gowing, 
of Camden Town, cured a lingering fit of colic by administering a pint 
of turpentine mixed with a quart of the solution of soap. The strong 
liquor of ammonia, diluted with six times its bulk of water and applied 
by means of a saturated cloth, held to the abdomen in a rug several 



198 



SPASMODIC COLIC, ETC. 



times doubled, is likewise frequently beneficial. If these means, used 
simultaneously, produce no amendment in two hours, watch the pulse, 
for there is most probably something beyond simple colic to contend 
with. 

Upon the earliest symptom the horse should be removed to a loose 
box amply protected by trusses of straw ranged against the walls. Into 
this the animal should be immediately led — for the reader must under- 




APPLYING AN AMMONIACAL BLISTER. 



Stand colic does not always observe the stages in which it has been 
described. Occasionally it commences in the wildest form; and if a 
loose box be not at hand, one can always be extemporized by removing 
the carriage from its house, by throwing the doors wide open and by 
placing a bar across the entrance. 

No disease is more quickly dispelled if treated at the commencement ; 
nor is there one which, being left to run its course, occasions greater 
agony, is more fearful to witness, or leads to more terrible results than 
spasmodic colic. A single dose of ether and of laudanum may van- 
quish the malady at the commencement ; yet if the attack be allowed to 
progress, the fit may set all skill and remedial measures at defiance. 
The principal attention of the proprietor must be given to prevent the 
administration of the "groom's favorite" or other ignorant nostrums. 
The case, when properly treated, is cured for a few shillings; and a 
horse cannot be killed with decency for less money. 

Besides, let any human being, having feelings capable of impression, 
regard an instance of spasmodic colic which has been aggravated by 
mistaken treatment; and as he views the fibers of a living body quiver, 
sees the frame bedewed in sweat and wrenched in mighty torture, con- 
templates the sad condition of the companion of his pleasures, and hears 
vented from its throat sounds expressive of agony, — let him, having the 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



199 



image present to his eyes, ask himself whether any man, possessing 
means at his command, has a right to make a money question of the 
creature's suffering, which exists in a state of dependence on his bounty. 

Horses must be gifted with a certain amount of reason. However 
furious may be the attack of colic, the mute expression of anguish is 
quieted when preparation is made for the administration of medicine. 
The most nauseous drenches are swallowed with a patience that speaks 
a perfect comprehension of their intent. The most wonderful proof of 
reason is, however, given by the manner in which the horse will recog- 
nize the veterinary surgeon. The author has known animals, in the 
intervals of spasmodic colic, walk close up to liim, look full into his face 
with an eye beaming with intelligence, and a strain upon the features 
as though the creature "did so wish to speak;" then finding utterance 
impossible, the nose has mutely directed attention to the flank. 

Every assistance is, by the animal, afforded to him who displays a 
desire to alleviate its distress. Where language is denied, motives 
appear to be the more quickly comprehended ; and he who wishes to 
mingle safely among horses, may best protect himself by treating them 
gently and sympathizing with their emotions. 



FLATULENT COLIC, AYINDY COLIC, TYMPANITIS, ETC. 

This is peculiarly the affection of old age. Horses, though not so 
liable to hoven as are horned cattle, nevertheless may be blown out if 
permitted to gorge upon moist, green food. Flatulent colic in the vast 
majority of instances, however, is not caused by any special fodder, but 







THE FIRST STAGE OP FLATULENT COLIC. 



springs from disordered digestion; living for years upon stimulating 
diet, breathing a tainted atmosphere, being now weakened by a long 
fast, then distressed by a too abundant supply; next exhausted by a 



200 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



tedious journey, and subsequently cramped by days of enforced stagna- 
tion, — all of these things ultimately tell upon the strong body of our 
domesticated quadruped. The stomach, as the earliest evidence of 
general debility, loses its tonicity. It cannot digest a full meal ; the 
provender ferments, gas is released, and flatulent colic is the conse- 
quence. 

A traditionary belief in the stable asserts this disorder is provoked 
by crib-biting, wind-sucking, etc. etc. The author is indebted to Mr. 
Ernes, a most successful veterinary surgeon of Dockhead, for the earliest 
comprehension of the impossibility that such causes should operate. 
Let the reader endeavor to swallow air ; the mouth being deprived of 
all saliva, the attempt at further deglutition is fruitless ; besides, to use 
the words of Mr. Ernes, "though the stomach or the bowels do contain 
a small portion of atmospheric air, flatulent colic is generated by car- 
bonic acid or sulphureted hydrogen gas, the products of decomposition ; 
either of which, if respired, destroys vitality." 

The horse which is to be oppressed by flatulent colic exhibits uneasi- 
ness after feeding; it hangs the head; breathes laboriously; fidgets; 
rocks the body, and rests first on one leg then on the other. These 




A HOESE DYIXa OP FLATULENT COUC. 



symptoms are exhibited before any enlargement of the abdomen is to 
be detected. With the swelling of the belly pawing commences ; that 
action is, however, far too leisurely displayed to be for an instant con- 
founded with the same energetic movement which characterizes spas- 
modic colic. 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 



201 



W. Percivall asserts that animals roll and kick at the abdomen dur- 
ing flatulent colic. Every fact requires to be respectfully considered 
which is recorded by so estimable a writer; but the author has never 
witnessed such symptoms in genuine flatulent colic. The horse will 
stand in one spot throughout the day ; even the movement of the foot, 
before noticed, appears to be an exertion. The eye is sleepy, the pulse 
heavy, wind frequently passes from the body, and in such a condition 
the animal remains, slowly becoming worse. 

Almost in the same place the horse may stand three or four days; 
then the abdomen is much increased in size; the animal is restless; the 
pulse is extremely feeble ; the breathing is very fast ; the pupil of the 
eye is dilated and the sight is lost. A walk as in a mill is commenced ; 
obstacles are run into or upset; delirium begins; weak neighs are 
uttered in reply to visionary challenges ; the coat is ragged ; copious 
and partial perspirations break forth; the beat of the artery is lost at 
the jaw; an intermittent flutter is to be indistinctly felt at the heart. 
At last the limbs fail; the body falls; struggles ensue, and the creature 
dies in consequence of the distended abdomen compressing the lungs, 
thus preventing the breath being inhaled. 

Relief should be afforded before the distress grows urgent ; when the 
flatulence comes on without green provender being consumed, the chances 
favor recovery ; even then, however, the gas may be confined to the 
stomach, which obliges entire dependence to be placed upon internal 
remedies. In the beginning, a ball composed 
of two drachms of sulphuret of ammonia, with 
a sufficiency of extract of gentian and pow- 
dered quassia, may be repeated thrice, half an 
hour being suffered to elapse between each ad- 
ministration. No benefit ensuing, one ounce of 
chlorate of potash, dissolved in a pint of cold 
water and mingled with two ounces of sulphu- 
ric ether, may, at the expiration of the time 
named, be horned down. After another hour, 
should no amendment be perceptible, two ounces 
each of sulphuric ether and laudanum, half an 
ounce of camphorated spirits, and one drachm 
of carbonate of ammonia may be given in a 
pint of cold water. Should no good effects 
ensue, in another hour throw up a tobacco-smoke enema by means of 
the machine here represented. 

As a last resort, should the previous remedies prove of no avail, pro- 
cure a stick of brimstone; light it and let it fill the place with the 




THE TOBACCO-SMOKE ENEMA. WORM.'!. 



202 



FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 




A TROCAR ARMED WITH A CANULA FOR PUNCTUEINQ 
THK ABDOMEN. 



sulphurous fumes which are the product of its combustion. However, 
mind that the air is not too strongly impregnated, though, at the same 
time, it should be so pungent as to allow a human being to breathe with 
difficulty. This last measure ought to be continued for two hours, at 
the end of which period repeat the remedies already recommended, re- 
sorting to each by turns ; and do not fear being active, for flatulent 
colic becomes more difficult to remove as the period of its origin grows 
more distant. Should the affection appear to be approaching a fatal 
termination, and the size of the belly convince the spectator that the 
gas has entered the intestines, a desperate remedy remains. The situa- 
tion where the vapor has accumulated may be ascertained by percussion; 
gently cut the skin which covers the abdomen on the left side, over 

those places indicated by white 
spots in the second engraving. 
A hollow sound will be emitted 
when the proper point has been 
struck; be certain of the last 
fact, as mistakes made in this 
operation are very awkward affairs. When assured, take a sharp-pointed 
knife, and, drawing the skin tight over the place selected, nick the integ- 
ument slightly ; then take a fine trocar and push it through the opening 
which has been made. 

This being accomplished, withdraw the stilet, and the gas should rush 
out with violence ; be provided with a small probe to clear the can- 
ula in case it should become impacted. The gas being released, the 
abdomen is reduced; withdraw the canula and the skin will fly back, 
effectually excluding all atmosphere. 

The gas, on rare occasions, will be generated a second time; there- 
fore the points where other punctures may be 
made are indicated ; for it is never well to in- 
terfere with those openings which in the first 
instance were instituted. However, should the 
operation have to be repeated, pull the integu- 
ment in the opposite direction, so as not to 
disturb the original wounds into the abdomen. 
Puncturing the abdomen for flatulent colic 
has been practiced both in this kingdom and in 

THE PLACES WHERE THE ABDOMEN '■ <-> 

MAT BE PUNCTURED IN THE LAST forelgu kuds t it Is bv uo mcaus a certain suc- 

STAGE OF FLATULENT COLIC. ° ' •' 

cess, neither is it a certain failure. It assuredly 
requires boldness to perform it; but probably it is quite as beneficial 
and far more speedy in its effects than the great majority of medicinal 
remedies. 




FLATULENT COLIC, ETC. 203 

The duration of flatulent colic cannot be absolutely stated ; it may 
continue for days, it may be cured in a single hour. However, should 
the abdomen be rapidly distended, then the termination will be sooner 
reached ; but be the attack quick or slow, neither food nor water should 
be allowed during its continuance. The groom, while the disease lasts, 
should occasionally sponge out the eyes, mouth, nostrils, etc. Indeed, 
humanity would dictate such relief during every serious affection. Sub- 
sequent to recovery, feed for a few days on gruel and mashed oats ; give 
a ball night and morning, composed of extract of gentian and powdered 
quassia, of each a sutficiency ; of extract of belladonna and of sulphate 
of copper, half a drachm. Continue this medicine and the above food 
until the stomach has regained its tone. 

Is flatulent colic a disease provoked by domestication ? Certainly ! 
The wild horse would have to travel for his food ; in domestication it is 
placed ready gathered before the animal. Besides, the free animal being 
ever with his provender, the temptation to gorge the stomach would be 
absent; moreover, the untrained creature is protected by its instincts, 
which the care of man destroys. Little, however, is thought of this ; 
the fact even may be unknown to the great majority of educated horse 
proprietors. The sense of repletion is no longer indicated with such 
force as to warn the stabled animal. The responsibility thus cast upon 
the master has possibly never occurred to the mass of mankind. So 
entirely has the notion of any duty being due to the animal been ignored 
by society that, notwithstanding nature in the above fact asserts the 
obligation, its announcement most probably will be received with 
laughter. 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE URINARY ORGANS — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



NEPHRITIS OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

The straddling gait is not peculiar to any one disorder. It denotes no 
more than the I'egion in which the affection is to be sought; but it does 
not characterize any special disease. Therefore so general a trait is 




THE GENERAL SYMPTOM WHICH ATTENDS ALL DISEASES OF THE CRINART ORGANS. 

placed at the head of the chapter treating of ailments confined to the 
urinary organs, so that he who perceives the horse assume this position 
may at once recognize that part of the body in which the disorder resides. 
Nephritis is not so common at the present time as it used to be for- 
merly ; the growing information of the people has in some measure altered 
the practices of the stable. The master is not quite so much the slave of 
a groom's ignorance as was once universally the case ; the animal is no 
longer regarded as a mysterious creature which it required a particular 
education to understand. Urine balls, therefore, are no longer regularly 
kept in every loft. Niter — one ounce of " siveet nitre," or, to speak cor- 
rectly, an overdose of harsh saltpeter — may, however, be still permitted, 
and by particular horse proprietors regarded as a charm against every 
(204) 



NEPHRITIS. 205 

ill. It is true that such a dose of a powerful diuretic is four times the 
strength which science would, under any circumstances, approve ; but 
certain people in remote parts are happy in the conviction that an ounce 
of "sweet niter" can jyos^iibly do no harm. 

The urinary organs of the horse must be little disposed to disease; 
they must be capable of surmounting a vast quantity of ill treatment. 
Were not ignorance thereby protected from the consequences which it 
])rovokes, half the horses in England would be disabled; inflammation of 
the kidneys would become the most common of equine disorders. 

The horse has small need of diuretic medicine ; it is much exposed in 
that direction. Every purge, should it not act as intended, passes out 
of the body by stimulating the kidneys; the ordinary provender of the 
animal may operate in the same manner. Foxy oats, kiln-dried oats, 
new oats; musty hay, mow-burnt hay, new hay; beans in particular con- 
ditions; grasses, when first in season, and water of any novel kind, will 
all operate energetically upon the renal glands; therefore the horse, in 
its ordinary food, will possibly imbibe more than a sufficiency of a most 
debilitating medicine ; and the knowledge of such a liability may induce 
some men to withhold "sweei niter" from the future diet of the creature. 

It may be necessary to inform men and masters that a horse needs I'est 
when under the operation of diuretic, quite as much as when subject to 
the action of purgative medicine. It is never safe to take the horse 
from the stable while the animal is passing any unusual amount of water. 
Excess of secretion proves the eliminating organs are excited. Before 
any part can exhibit excitement, an extra quantity of blood must circu- 
late within it, or it must be in a condition bordering upon inflammation. 
The urine is secreted from the blood by the kidneys; therefore before. a 
greater bulk of water can be passed, of course more blood must flow 
thi'ough the glands. 

The animal in such a state is not fit for work; every step taken brings 
into action muscles which pass directly under the kidneys, and which 
must, therefore, when contracted, compress those organs. During labor, 
in proportion to the force required must be the power of the contraction 
exerted by the organs of motion ; in a healthy state, such exertion is not 
always free from danger. Excitement is, however, far from a healthy 
state. Then the glands are gorged with blood ; being squeezed for an 
hour or two while thus swollen or plethoric, they are very likely to be 
I)ruised; inflammation may thereby be engendered, or renal abscess may 
possibly ensue. 

Agriculturists are entreated to pause over the above statement. Such 
persons often possess a well-bred and promising colt. The farmer, how- 
ever, is mostly uneasy until he has, according to his own notions, "tried 



206 



NEPHRITIS. 



the beast." He may be a personable man, riding fully "eighteen stun." 
The colt, probably, would be taxed to carry a third that load. The 
" si^ee^niter " dose is administered over night to take all fever out of 
the body; and, while the kidneys are excited, the animal is saddled, 
mounted, and ridden to the hunt. Everybody knows the manner in 
which most farmers ride. The horse may have a hard run and be kept 
out for a long day. On the return, a full rack and a heaped manger 




A COLT BROUGHT HOME AFTER THE FARMER HAS TRIED "WHAT KIND OP STUFF IS IN IT," BT A HARD 
DAY WITH THE HOUNDS. 

are placed before the overridden quadruped. Neither are touched. The 
saddle is removed and the back appears to be "queerly sticking up." 
The large full eyes are repeatedly turned round ; and the renter of land 
is in doubt whether the creature is staring reproachfully at him or is 
simply inspecting its own quarters. However, with the apathy which 
too many agriculturists habitually display, the colt is left for the night. 
By the next morning the animal is ruined, even should it survive an 
attack of acute nephritis. 

The symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys are a hard pulse, 
decidedly accelerated ; quickened and short breathing, suggestive of 
pain; pallid raucous membranes; frequent looking toward the seat of 
anguish; head depressed; back roached; hind legs straddled, and the 
urine scanty. The animal almost refuses to "come round" in its stall, 
seldom lies down, and crouches beneath pressure when made upon the 
loins. 

Subsequently, as the symptoms alter, pus or matter may subside in the 
water. It is indicative of an unfavorable termination should a fetid 



NEPHRITIS. 



201 



odor attend the secretion, and should it be deeply tinted by the blood. 
Death is generally close at hand when the pulse grows quicker but more 
feeble, when pressure elicits no response, when the body is covered with 
perspiration, and when a urinous smell is perceptible on approaching 
the animal. 

The treatment of nephritis consists in applying fresh sheepskins to 
the loins. Should the case be urgent, a quantity of lukewarm made 
mustard may be first rubbed in and the sheepskin placed over it ; or 
mustard poultices in any case may be employed and covered over to 
prevent them becoming 
dry, till sheepskins can be 
procured. Injections of 
warm linseed tea should be 
thrown up every hour, as 
these are the nearest ap- 
proach that can be made 
to actual fomentation. 
Two scruples of croton 
farina, mixed with half a 
drachm of belladonna, may 
be given immediately in 
the form of a ball, the bulk 
of which should be made 
up with crushed linseeds 
and treacle. One scru- 
ple of calomel, with one 
drachm of opium, may be sprinkled on the tongue every hour while the 
acute stage continues. A pail of good linseed tea should be kept before 
the horse ; but as for more substantial provender, none is I'equisite dur- 
ing the agony of the disease. 

Should the slightest doubt be entertained concerning the nature of 
the aflFection, immediately insert the arm up the rectum. This intestine 
is anatomically spoken of as "a floating gut." It is suspended from 
the spine by mesentery or a loose fold of thin membrane, and, there- 
fore, is easily raised or depressed. It is situated under the kidneys, 
and nothing consequently interposes between the diseased organ and 
the inserted hand but the pliable coats of the bowel and the fatty sub- 
stances which immediately surround the glands. The hand is not con- 
scious of the soft wall of the intestine which covers it. The motion is 
so free, and the fingers are so readily moved, that previous knowledge 
alone assures the operator his arm is within a circumscribed canal, and 
not located in a free space. 




THE TEST FOR NEPHRITIS OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 



208 



NEPHRITIS. 



By inserting the hand and moving it gradually upward, an approach 
can be made to the immediate vicinity of the inflammation. Sensitive- 






a a a. The spine. hhh. The mesentery. c c c. The rectum. 

A. The extent to which the rectum may by very gradual force be depressed without injury to the 
animal. 

B. The rectum, with the natural length of mesentery, when not depressed. 

C. The rectmn raised, showing that the mesentery is vejy i>liable. 

uess will be exhibited as the seat of disease is touched. Heat will also 
be felt. A fore leg should, however, be held up on the same side as the 

operator stands. Should the horse strug- 
gle violently and denote positive agony 
when the hand is approaching the region 
of the kidneys, the signs may be considered 
conclusive without attempting farther ex- 
ploration. Should the animal remain quiet 
at first, nevertheless let the operator be 
cautious, as the too near vicinity to the in- 
flamed part provokes resistance, which, in 
its utter heedlessness, is closely allied to 
madness. 

Several reasons will suggest the point at 
which the hand should pause. In the first 
place, pressure cannot benefit a delicately-formed and a diseased organ. 
In the second place, the agony of the animal may endanger the safety of 
the operator. In the last place, anything approaching to downright 
resistance brings the muscles that pass under the kidneys into ener- 
getic action, which circumstance is by no means favorable to ultimate 
recovery 

Many men can speak of the pain induced by affections of the kidneys. 
The torture consequent upon disease of an internal organ appears to 
be so excessive as at times to destroy reason in the human being. No 




A CERTAIN TEST FOR INFLAMMATION 
OF THE KIDNET8. 



CYSTITIS. 209 

one can look upon a horse suffering from nephritis, without feeling that, 
in sensibilities at all events, the two creatures are alike. Sympathy 
has been interpreted to mean no more than a conscious similarity of 
emotion. Such a definition must be erroneous, or more sympathy would 
actuate man toward his slave. The life is devoted to the service of the 
master. The body is disabled before its time for the pleasure of man- 
kind. The horse is such a slave as no words can express. It lives but 
to obey. Its master's whim is the animal's joy. It is happy to exist 
where and how its superior may appoint. Still there is no sympathy 
felt toward its tortures, no feeling evinced for its sufferings : its life is 
one long solitude, its death is the degradation of misery. Were man to 
read of some wild beast capable of such sincere docility, what pains 
would not be spent to secure so valuable a companion ! The animal is 
beside him and it is disregarded ; or its goodness is converted into the 
means for its mutilation. 

The additional treatment of nephritis consists more in the food than 
in the physic ; linseed, both the seeds and the infusion, may be given for 
the body's support. The best oats should be procured upon recovery, 
and the quality of the hay also should be attended to ; as for physic, 
that is almost limited to belladonna and to aconite. Belladonna is 
administered mixed with four times its amount of opium, so long as the 
pain is acute. 

Extract of belladonna Half a drachm. 

Crude opium Two drachms. 

Make into a ball with linseed meal and honey; give three daily while 
the symptoms require them ; or, should the pain be excessive, administer 
one every hour. 

The aconite root is intended to lower the circulation. When the 
pulse is quick and hard, a scruple of the powder may be thrown upon 
the tongue every half hour, till the beat of the artery soften, or till the 
animal appear to be affected by the medicine. The above measures are 
to be adopted without regard to, the calomel and opium previously 
recommended. 

A horse having survived one attack of nephritis, can scarcely, how- 
ever successful may be the treatment, be restored to its original condition. 
The glands which have suffered inflammation must be left in an irritable 
state. 

CYSTITIS— INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

This disorder is somewhat rare in the horse. Few cases have occurred ; 
even those were not strongly marked. Besides the general indications 
present during nephritis, such as quickened breathing, accelerated pulse, 

U 



210 CYSTITIS. 

straddling gait, etc. etc., the most prominent sign concerns the emission 
of the urine. The bladder is irritable at the commencement; the kid- 
neys have not secreted half a pint of fluid before it is violently expelled, 
and much straining, accompanied by sounds expressive of pain, follows 
the act. As the disease progresses, the bladder is contracted, and the 
water issues drop by drop, or as a constant dribble. This particularity 
marks the disease, which is also distinguished from nephritis by the 
roached back being absent ; the spine rather being hollowed more than 
is usual in cystitis. 

Most lecturers direct the student to insert the arm up a horse affected 
with cystitis and to feel the compressed 
bladder; this is easily accomplished, as the 
engraving demonstrates; but is the opera- 
tion perfectly safe ? White muscular tissue, 
when inflamed, becomes acutely sensitive. 
The bladder possesses a thick coat of that 
substance, and the hand, grasping an organ 
of this formation when in a state of disease, 
would probably torture the sufferer to frenzy. 
It is not wise to excite a creature command- 
ing so huge a strength. There is, however, 
A DANGEROUS TEST FOR iMFLAMMATioN a tcst whlch viclds as ccrtalu a response, and, 

OP THE BLADDER. •' 17 7 

at the same time, is far less hazardous. This 
consists in placing the hand under the flank and keeping it there till all the 
action which could be attributable to skittishness has disappeared ; then 
press the abdomen, which, should it be hard and resistant, is a convinc- 
ing proof cystitis is not present ; for contraction of the recti abdominis 
muscles would force the contents of the cavity into violent contact with 
the inflamed bladder. Should any doubt be entertained concerning the 
condition of the muscle named, a little more pressure will soon ascertain 
the fact. However, let the person who applies the test be prepared for 
the consequence, as the application of pressure to a diseased organ 
provokes a sudden and energetic resistance, intended to strike the tor- 
mentor backward. 

The treatment for inflamed bladder and diseased kidneys is alike as 
regards the administration of aconite root, extract of belladonna, calomel 
and opium. The reader is, therefore, in some measure referred to the 
article upon nephritis; there is, however, a difference in application of 
counter-irritation by means of a rug doubled over a cloth, which last is 
saturated with strong liquor of ammonia diluted with six times its bulk 
of water; should this not be within reach, hot cloths retained under the 
belly are the next best application ; but these require constant change 




CYSTITIS. 



211 



and a larger supply of heated fluid than most private establishments 
can command. Should both recommendations prove useless, then apply 
cloths dripping wet from a cold bath, and keep renewing them so often 
as they become warm. 




A SAFER TEST FOR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 



The cause of cystitis is the same as produces many cases of inflamed 
kidney, namely, the abuse of medicine, or new and unwholesome food ; 
blows likewise may induce it. Kicks under the belly, the too common 
mode of expressing impatience among carters, are very likely to provoke 




APPLICATION OF THE AMMONIACAL BLISTER. 



it. Horses are frequently seen in the streets of every town now whipped 
to make them proceed ; then the rein jagged to command the animal to 
"stand still." Next the whip is again applied; afterward the animal's 



212 SPASM OF THE URETHRA. 

belly is spitefully aimed at with the heavy boot of the countryman. The 
horses know not how to interpret these different signs : they become 
confused; they turn various ways, as if they hoped by such devices to 
please their chastiser. All is in vain ! At length the animals burst 
into perspiration and shiver violently ; by their alarm they are rendered 
stupid. But so disgusting an exhibition of folly and of cruelty on the 
part of the driver mostly creates small indignation in the wayfarers who 
behold it. The spectators generally look on with smiling countenances, 
and for the most part move onward without a word of displeasure or 
rebuke. To the human mind a man appears invested with absolute 
authority over the life which he has bought. So also no man risks 
reprobation, who keeps his animals upon poisonous provender. The hay, 
oats, and beans may be of a character calculated to engender disease. 
But has not the owner purchased the right to treat his property as he 
thinks proper ? It is true, religion teaches that life is not in the custody 
of man, and that health is not at mortal command ; but where horses are 
involved, all restraints appear to be forgotten, and mankind seem leagued 
together to inflict suffering on the dumb. For, is it not universally 
agreed that heavenly precepts were intended for man alone, and do not 
stoop so low as to include all the creatures the existence of which dates 
prior to the origin of the human being ? Animals, according to modern 
interpretation, are excluded from the ample embrace of Christian charity. 
An all-merciful power looks down with pity only upon one inhabitant of 
earth ! 

SPASM OF THE URETHRA, 

This affection is commonly designated spasm of the neck of the blad- 
der. The part named, however, has no fiber capable of excitation ; and 
it is difficult to understand how the elastic tissue at the opening of the 
receptacle can display a condition which is inherent only within the 
contractibility of muscle. The compressor urethrae muscle, however, 
being morbidly excited, is more than capable of preventing all discharge 
of urine. 

The causes which provoke the spasm are not thoroughly understood. 
The affection is mostly attributed to some acridity existing in the food 
or water; else the supposed agent is said to be developed during the 
process of digestion. 

The symptoms are: a widely straddling gait; total suppression of 
urine, or small portions forcibly ejected at distant intervals. The suf- 
fering attendant on distention of the bladder is sometimes so violent 
that the affection has been mistaken for phrenitis. At other times the 
horse has been imagined to be griped. Both these blunders are unpar- 



CALCULI. 



213 



donable. The haggard countenance, copious perspirations, and the fre- 
quent glances toward the flanks, joined to the straddling gait and to the 
desperate but at the same time guarded struggles, are all opposed to 
such conclusions. Were a proper examination instituted, the real nature 
of the affection would at once be made apparent, beyond the possibility 
of error. 

Insert the greased arm up the rectum, and, when fully advanced, 
make pressure downward ; the dilated 
bladder will then be under the hand. 
The best remedies are sulphuric ether 
and laudanum, which should be given in 
large quantities. Tour ounces of each 
should, in a quart of cold water, be ad- 
ministered by the mouth : the like quan- 
tities, blended with three pints of cold 
water, ought to be thrown up as an injec- 
tion. The last being given, the hand 
should be placed over the opening and 
pressed upon it for ten minutes. Should 
one dose not succeed, in a quarter of an 
hour the injection may be repeated. Again and again it must be had 
recourse to ; till the spasm is vanquished or till the urine flows freely 
forth. 

Should the horse be seized where no medicine can be obtained, then 
extract blood from free openings till fainting takes place. Several small 
depletions are very weakening, and a large quantity of the vital fluid 
drawn at different times is far less likely to overcome the disease than 
one full venesection. Open both jugulars : allow the blood to flow 
from both veins till the water rushes forth or the animal falls, when, 
insensibility being produced, everything like spasm disappears, and the 
bladder will mechanically empty itself Should not such a relief ensue, 
the greased arm may be inserted up the rectum, and gentle pressure 
made upon the gorged viscus. Advantage is thus taken of the animal's 
insensibility to adopt a mode of relief which we dare not hazard while 
consciousness is retained. 




MODE TO ASCERTAIN THE DISTENTION OP 
THE BLADDER. 



CALCULI. 



Stones within the urinary apparatus are designated by various names, 
that are derived from the situations in which they are found. Thus 
renal calculus represents a stone which has been discovered within the 
pelvis of the kidney. Uretal calculus implies a stone found within the 
tubes leading from the kidneys to the bladder ; but calculi of this kind 



214 CALCULI. 

are as yet unknown in the horse. Cystic calculus signifies a stone which 
resides in the cavity of the bladder. Urethral calculus denotes a stone 
which was detected within the passage leading from the bladder. Of 
these the cystic are altogether the largest, and the renal, at a consider- 
able distance, rank as the next in magnitude. All consist of carbonate 
of lime or of common chalk, held firmly together by the secretion of the 
mucous membrane. 

The symptoms which characterize renal calculus are not well marked. 
The urine may become purulent, thick, opaque, gritty or bloody. Exer- 
tion may provoke extreme anguish, resembling a severe fit of colic ; but 
the attack is distinguished from genuine gripes by the back, during the 
pain, being always reached. However, the most decided symptom is 
of a negative nature ; being the absence of stone in the bladder to 
account for the diseased urine. The inference is, moreover, strengthened 
if, when the hand within the rectum is carried upward, pain and alarm 
are elicited ; or if pressure made upon the loins causes the animal to 
shrink. 

Cystic calculus is denoted, as is the previous kind of stone, by certain 
conditions of the urine. Added to these general signs, the water, when 

flowing forth, will often be suddenly stopped, 
and every emission is followed by violent 
straining. Abdominal pains also are pres- 
ent; but the back is rather hollowed than 
roached. The point of the penis is, in par- 
ticular instances, constantly exposed; and 
the horse, when going down hill, sometimes 
pulls up short, either to recover from torture 
or to relieve the bladder. 

The way to ascertain the presence of cystic 
calculus is to make an examination per rec- 
A CERTAIN METHOD OF ASCERTAINING IF tum. Makc thc invcstigatiou with all gen- 

THERE BE CALCULUS IN THE BLADDER. mi n ' in 1 l T 

tleness. The foreign body may then be dis- 
tinctly felt; even its size, form, and irregularities can by this means be 
discovered. 

Urethral calculus is a small stone which, during the flow of urine, 
has been carried out of the bladder and is spasmodically grasped by the 
muscle of the urethra. The passage is effectually closed and great suf- 
fering is induced. Should the stone be impacted within the exposed 
part of the canal, the precise situation is easily told. Behind the stop- 
page the passage is distended by fluid; while before it all is natural. 
The calculus should be cut down and removed ; the wound being after- 
ward dressed with a solution of chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce 




HEMATURIA. 



215 



of water. This is an easy and by no means a dangerous operation. 
Any person of ordinary slcill having a sharp knife may undertake it. 

For renal calculus, little can be done. That little, however, consists 
in mingling two drachms of hydrochloric acid with every pail of water, 
and allowing the animal to imbibe as much as it pleases. Should the 
medicated drink be refused, the horse must be starved into accepting it. 
With this liquid, however, the stone must be small to be dissolved; but 
it effectually checks the further increase of the calculus. 

Lithotomy is the name given to that operation by which large stones 
are removed from the bladder of the horse. It is far too complicated 
and too serious a proceeding to be entrusted to any general reader. No 
direction which possibly could be misconstrued shall, therefore, be at- 
tempted. When an operation is required for stone in the bladder, a 
qualified veterinary surgeon had better be employed. Mr. Simmonds, 
of the Royal Veterinary College, Camden Town, however, deserves 
praise for having invented an instrument by means of which stone can 
generally be removed from the bladder of the mare without resort to 
the knife being necessary. 



HEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

The name fully characterizes this affection. The blood emitted may 
consist of small clots ; it may congeal after it has left the body ; or it 
may be entirely mingled with — giving a brownish tinge to — the water. 
Upon the exhibition of 
this disorder, always treat 
the symptoms first ; when 
all chance of immediate 
danger has disappeared, 
examine the body to as- 
certain whence the hemor- 
rhage proceeded, because 
in this aifection the symp- 
toms really constitute the 
disease ; and when the 
first has disappeared, the 
last is cured. 

The extent of the bleeding, of course, regulates the symptoms. When 
that is copious, the breathing is short and quick; the pupils of the eye 
are dilated ; the pulse is not to be felt at the jaw ; the head is pendu- 
lous; and the visible mucous membranes are cold as well as pallid. 
Lifting the head produces staggering; if continued, the animal would 




A HORSE SUFFERING FROM HEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 



216 HEMATURIA. 

fall. The back is reached ; the flanks are tucked up, and the legs widely 
separated, as though the horse was aware of its inability to support its 
body. 

The treatment consists in disturbing the sufferer as little as possible ; 
in acting upon the report received, for in a case of this kind it is hardly 
credible there should be any mistake. Administer, as gently as it can 
be done, two drachms of acetate of lead in half a pint of cold water, 
or as a ball, if one can be delivered. If this has no effect, in a quarter 
of an hour, or sooner should the symptoms demand haste, repeat the 
dose, adding, however, one ounce of laudanum or two drachms of pow- 
dered opium. Give two more drinks or balls of the like composition ; 
but should these be followed by no beneficial result, change the medicine 
after the administration of one ounce of acetate of lead. 

When the indications are not alarming, the horse may be left for a 
couple of hours, with strict orders that the animal be watched, but on 
no account disturbed. Should, however, activity be required, obtain 
some of the coldest water, and have several pailfuls dashed from a 
height upon the loins. After this inject some of the same fluid, allow- 
ing the water to flow freely forth from the anus — the object only being 
to procure the advantages of excessive cold. For medicine, a trial 
may be made of the ergot of rye. Pour on to four drachms of the 
drug half a pint of boiling water, and, when cold, add one ounce of 
laudanum and four ounces of dilute acetic acid — not vinegar, as that 
always contains sulphuric acid, which would counteract the action of 
the lead. Two drinks, two enemas, (each lasting twenty minutes,) and 
any quantity of water upon the loins will serve for the second hour. 

If these remedies have produced no change, all further treatment 
must be suspended for eight hours, at the expiration of which period 
the treatment may be resumed, and the previous measures repeated. 

Should the hemorrhage have ceased, leave the horse undisturbed for 
the night. On the following day, if no blood has been noticed, have 
the animal gently led under cover. Then proceed to examine the horse 
per rectum. If the kidneys are not enlarged, hardened, or sensitive, 
and if the bladder is without stone, but of its natural thickness, there is 
every prospect of a favorable termination. 

Should the bladder be thickened, adopt the treatment laid down for 
cystitis ; if stone is discovered, an operation is indicated ; be the kid- 
neys disorganized, the case is hopeless. If none of these are present, 
then any of the following medicines may be experimented with, it 
always being uncertain which will prove beneficial : — 

Extract of catechu In one-ounce doses daily. 

Strong infusion of oak bark .... Three pints daily. 



DIABETES INSIPIDUS. 217 

Alum One ounce daily. 

Sulphate of iron or of copper . . . One ounce daily. 
Muriatic acid Six drachms daily. 

DIABETES INSIPIDUS, OR PROFUSE STALING. 

In this affection, which, properly treated, is but a passing annoyance, 
the thirst is enormous ; but more fluid is voided than the animal drinks. 
The strength and condition are quickly lost, while the flesh fades rapidly 
away. 

Either the horse has been tampered with by the groom, or the hay, 
oats, or beans are unsound. A sudden change of water is said to pro- 
(Juce the disorder ; but that, probably, is far more a stable excuse than 
an established cause. However, change both food and water. Take 
into the stable two slips of blotting-paper. Dip the ends of them into 
some of the urine, which will always be retained in the interspaces of 
the brick flooring. Smell one piece. If it communicates a scent re- 
sembling violets, that is proof positive turpentine has been administered. 
Dry the other piece. Should that, when perfectly dry, and a light is 
applied, prove to be touch-paper, the evidence is conclusive: "sweet 
niter" has been secretly given to the animal. Should both these tests 
fail, the groom is innocent, as other diuretics are unknown in the stable. 

The horse should not be taken out while the prominent symptom 
lasts; it is languid; is unfit for work or even exercise. No brutality 
can quicken the body when the vital powers are exhausted ; but inatten- 
tion to the suggestion of mere humanity may change a slight and tem- 
porary evil into a severe and critical disorder — nephritis. 

A pail of good linseed tea, made by pouring boiling water on whole 
linseeds, and afterward allowing the infusion to stand till lukewarm, 
should be constantly before the manger. The animal may drink accord- 
ing to the dictates of its condition. The linseed, when strained off and 
mixed with sound bruised and scalded oats, may be given as food. No 
hay or grass should be allowed. Attend to the grooming, although it 
is a sick horse and does not go out. Nothing relieves the kidneys more 
than the restored action of the skin. A ball may be given every day. 
It should consist of — 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Honey and linseed meal A sufficiency. 

Or, should a drink be preferred, dilute — 

Phosphoric acid One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Give night and morning. 



218 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. 



The author was once prepossessed in favor of iodide of potassium 
for the cure of diabetes. He is indebted to Mr. Woodger, the excel- 
lent practical veterinary surgeon of Paddington, for a knowledge of the 
very superior efficacy of the drug just named. It exercises a potent 
action over the kidneys, at the same time it is a first class tonic, and in 
a surprising manner reduces the desire for fluids. It is in all respects 
the exact medicine which could be wished for in a case of diabetes 
insipidus. 

ALBUMINOUS URINE. 

Two cases of this description occurred in the extensive practice of the 
late William Percivall, Esq, They are narrated in the admirable work 
entitled "Hippopathology," bequeathed to posterity by the estimable 
author. The present writer having been honored by the friendship of 
the gentleman named, is, from frequent conversations upon the subject, 
the better able to describe and to depict the disorder. 

The positions of both horses were remarkable. One stretched the 

fore and hind legs out, 
as though it were about 
to urinate ; the other 
reached the back and 
brought the hind feet 
under the body as far as 
possible. Turning in the 
stalls was, in each case, 
accomplished with diffi- 
culty ; and the straddling 
gait remarkable in both, 
indicating the seat of the 
affection. 

Some urine being 
caught by the groom, it 
was thick but clear — like melted calves' foot jelly — and, when cold, the 
surface was uneven. Bichloride of mercury being added to a portion 
of the fluid, caused a thick, colorless, opaque substance — resembling 
coagulated white of egg — to be thrown down, leaving a clear straw- 
colored liquor above the settlement. Another portion being first 
treated with acetic acid, afterward mixed with prussiate of potash and 
subsequently boiled, became in appearance like to milk. With time, 
however, a white sediment occurred, leaving the fluid perfectly clear. 

Mr. Percivall's treatment was mildly depletive. He bled moderately, 
gave a laxative, and applied mustard to the loins for a brief space. 




THE POSITIONS ASSUMED BY HORSES HAVING ALBUMINOUS URINE, 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. 



219 



Perfect rest, strict attention to diet, and repeated doses of opium, con- 
stituted the after-measures. It is also mentioned that diuretics, tonics, 




THE TESTS FOR ALBDMINOUS TIRINE. 

A. The appearance of the urine when cold, being partially roup;h on the surface. Sometimes, however, 
the fluid is merely thicker than usual, appearing like water in which a portion of gum has been dissolved. 

B. The white precipitate produced by the addition of a portion of the solution of bichloride of mer- 
cury. 

C. Some urine to which a little acetic acid was iirst added. A portion of the solutiou of prussiate of 
potash was subsequently introduced. The liquid was then boiled, when it became thick, white, and 
opaque, like milk. 



and stimulants were tried, but all proved injurious. Both animals 
ultimately recovered. 

Those who desire ampler details are referred to "Hippopathology," 
by W. Percivall, published by Longman & Co. 



CHAPTER X. 

THE SKIN — ITS ACCIDENTS AND ITS DISEASES. 



MANGE. 

This troublesome disease, which is the itch of the stable, generally 
preys upon the poorly nurtured, the aged or the debilitated. Neglect 
is the almost necessary associate of poverty; loss of pride attends loss 
of means, for seldom can the spirit of man brave the frowns of fortune. 
The want of emulation is always seen most emphatically without the 




STMPTOMS OF MANGINESS WHEN CAUGHT IN THE FIELD. 

doors of the home ; the garden denotes the failure of industry, and the 
stable languishes under an absence of activity. The grooming is avoided ; 
the horse's food is proportioned to the master's means, and is not given 
at regular hours; coarse diet and a filthy abode generate that weakness 
which will assuredly breed mange. 

The disease, once developed, is highly contagious ; all horses standing 
near the one affected, all that may touch it, or the shafts to which it was 
harnessed, or anything that has been in contact with the contaminated 
body, are inoculated. The very robust, to be sure, may escape ; but this 
circumstance is to be regarded as the most stringent test of actual 
(220) 



MANGE. 221 

health rather than as the declaration of that state which the majority 
of mankind are pleased to term perfect condition. The animal which 
escapes must be of so sound a body as to afford no nutriment to the 
disorder which preys upon debility. Probably not one horse in ten 
thousand could resist so searching a test ; the trial, however, after all, 
would be no more than a negative proof; and it is to be much regretted 
that science, up to the present time, has not discovered any means by 
which the presence of established health can be' demonstrated. 

Mange depends upon the presence of an insect which is classed with 
spiders, though to the uninitiated it looks, under the microscope, far 
more like a deformed crab. A representation of this parasite, very 
highly magnified, is here given, from Dr. Eras- 
mus Wilson's paper upon the subject; and the 
reader may indulge his ingenuity by discovering 
its likeness to the spider. 

The parasites are, when attentively searched 
for, to be recognized by the naked eye. Any 
man, by scratching the roots of the hair upon 
the mane of a mangy horse, may loosen a por- 
tion of scurf; let this scurf be received or cast 
upon a sheet of white paper. The paper then 
should be subjected to a strong light ; the glare 
of the noonday sun is to be preferred, as warmth 
greatly influences the activity of the parasites. 

^ '' . ^''^ MANGE INSECT. 

Numerous very small shining points may thus 

be seen moving about the mass in all directions. Those points are the 
insects, and, considering the easy means we now possess of demonstra- 
ting their existence, it seems astonishing that veterinary science was so 
long before it recognized the true source of the contagion. Even at 
the last moment, the sight was quickened by the research of a human 
physician, Dr. Erasmus Wilson; but after that gentleman soon followed 
Mr. Ernes, veterinarian, of Dockhead. 

Mange would be far less general than it is, did not the convenience or 
the prejudice of mankind predispose them to favor a "run at grass." 
The horse there placed is all at once taken from a stimulating diet, 
while, the groom being relieved of his charge, foulness accumulates upon 
the coat. The animal, instead of standing still and feeding upon nour- 
ishing provender, has to travel far and to distend the stomach with a 
watery substance before the cravings of hunger can be appeased and 
satiety impress the creature with a consciousness that existence has 
gathered a sufiQcient support. The quadruped while at grass is neces- 
sitated to be eating the major portion of both day and night; little 




222 MANGE. 

leisure is left from the cravings of appetite for rest or for repose. No 
comfortable bed is placed beneath the jaded limbs. There may be an 
open shed under which all the inhabitants of the field are free to shelter 
themselves from the storms of autumn and from the colds of early morn- 
ing. That building is, however, generally taken possession of by horned 
cattle, or by the victor of the steeds, and none but favorites are allowed 
to share the comfort of the tyrant. 

It is assuredly true that the horse, in its primitive state, must have 
galloped over the plains free from human care and without a roof to 
harbor it. In a similar state man also must once have existed. The 
early Britons are described as walking about in painted costume, and as 
living on acorns and wild berries. Which of her Britannic Majesty's 
present subjects would like for six weeks in every year to return to the 
habits of our ancestors? The horse is even more artificial than man 
himself. It proves nothing, therefore, that the creature has existed 
upon the plain ; any more than the possibility of rearing human beings 
apart from civilization can establish that the latter mode is beneficial to 
the body's development. Man has lost the desire for a wild existence. 
Then, why is the horse expected to be benefited by a return to the so- 
called natural state, although securely fenced from that freedom and 
extent of choice wliich primitive nature would have afforded? 

Horses, when huddled together, often commit fearful injuries upon 
their companions. The creatures are unused to the society into which 
they are forced, and awkwardness is apt to be rude. Any want of man- 
ners in the heels of a horse is a serious business. But, to put upon one 
side so weighty an argument against the grass field, as foreign to the 
present subject, — all sorts of animals are there congregated. Some are 
turned out "to regain condition;" some to become "fresh upon the legs;" 
and some to live cheaply till their services are required. Others are 
allowed "a run," after some virulent disorder; and others merely to 
afford time for the eradication of obstinate disease. The pony, the cart- 
horse, the thorough-bred, and the roadster, — all are crowded together. 
All sizes and conditions meet as at a common table. Is it very wonder- 
ful, or much out of the scope of ordinary probability, if one of the creat- 
ures so exposed, so fed, and so tended, should engender mange ? A few 
years back, the children kept at Yorkshire schools were much exposed 
to a similar affection. Those babes, however, had not been more accus- 
tomed to cleanliness than the horse, nor wei*e they exposed to half the 
neglect which the animal at grass is obliged to endure. Is it then sur- 
prising that the lower creature should breed a disease like to that which 
afflicts the human being? Let mange appear in one, and the rest are 
prepared by exposure and unwholesome food to imbibe the disorder; 



MANGE. 223 

the contagion rapidly spreads; posts and rails are loosened or over- 
thrown by horses rubbing against them ; or, should such things be want- 
ing, constant irritation instructs instinct, and the miserable animals scrub 
one against the other in the open space. 

Besides the grass field, foul lodging or tilth and poor provender will 
breed mange in the horse, as the same causes operating upon the human 
subject will engender a like disorder. It is sad to think that with the 
horse, as years increase, ailments accumulate and strength departs; it is 
sad to think, that as the animal's life becomes more hard to sustain, its 
food is always the less nourishing and its labor the more exhausting; 
that as care is necessary, so is neglect encountered ; that the wretched 
quadruped at length is sold to some costermonger, who, when he makes 
the purchase, nicely calculates how many days of labor the emaciated 
life is capable of before it is turned over to the knacker. Many a noble- 
man must have looked upon an animal in the last stage of a weary life 
which was formerly the companion of his pleasures. The rusty, lean, 
and worn-out carcass most probably was not recognized, or how must 
reflection have whispered that power was not given to turn away exist- 
ence into wretchedness after willfulness had rendered the body less 
capable of sustaining suffering 1 

In the vast majority of cases this disease first appears in the mane, 
among the hairs of which a quantity of loose, dry scurf is perceptible. 
Before such a sign, however, is to be recognized, excessive itchiness is 
exhibited. The disease, once established, soon extends to the head, to 
the neck, to the withers, to the sides, to the loins, and to the quarters ; 
only in very exceptional cases are the legs exposed to its attacks. As 
the disorder proceeds, the hair falls off, leaving vacant places upon the 
body; these have a peculiar, dry, acrid, and irritable appearance; they 
suggest that portions of the body have been scorched with quick-lime, 
so irregular, patched, and scabby are the parts just referred to. The 
integument in these places greatly thickens and is no longer soft and 
pliable as a lady's glove, but becomes corrugated or thrown into well- 
defined folds. 

The hairs, however, are not all removed; a few and only a few re- 
main; these cling with exceeding tenacity to the surfaces which their 
fellows have quitted. The force required to pull out one of these 
remaining hairs is somewhat surprising, and the hair being extracted, 
the roots, upon close examination, will be discovered enlarged and far 
more vascular than is usual. 

The above are the broad and more obvious indications of mange. 
However, should the diseased locality be more minutely inspected, a 
number of small pimples are discerned; these elevations are clustered 



224 



MANGE. 



upon different spots. As they mature, the point of each contains a 
very slight quantity of gelatinous fluid ; the vesicles ultimately burst ; 
the contents exude and become dry through the absorption of the atmo- 
sphere, forming incrustations upon the surface. Add to this, the irrita- 
tion provokes the diseased animal to scrub itself against any irregular, 
projecting surface which may be at hand. Raw places, frequently of 
magnitude, are often occasioned by the friction so rudely applied ; from 
this source another set of crusts spring up. The places which are 
denuded, therefore, may present a very varied aspect, but still the parched 
appearance of the scurfy and dry skin affords the best external evidence 
of the presence of mange. 

An animal, which from being gray in youth has grown white with age, 





A MANGY PIECE OF SKIN. 



THE HEAD OF AN OLD, MANGY WHITE HORSE. 



still retains to its death the signs of its youthful color upon its skin. 
The integument is dark, although the hair may have lost the last vestige 
of its original hue; the checkered appearance established by mange 
gives to the white horse a particularly ragged and dejected aspect. 
Unfortunately, man is not, at the present moment, sufficiently enlight- 
ened to recognize the 
symptoms which indi- 
cate an approaching at- 
tack of mange ; but the 
animal energetically an- 
nounces the malady so 
soon as the contami- 
nation is established. 
The disorder being con- 
firmed, its existence is 
readily ascertained ; the fingers have only to be inserted among the roots 
of the mane, and the part titillated with the nails. The horse thus 
treated will stretch forth the head and neck, will compose its features 




THE TEST FOR MANGE. 



MANGE. 



225 



into an expression of excessive pleasure, and will continue motionless 
so long as the hand remains upon the crest. 

This sign, being witnessed, may be esteemed conclusive. Let such an 
animal be placed in the sunshine for an hour, should the weather per- 
mit; otherwise allow it to stand in the warmest house which is unoccu- 
pied ; then have the coat thoroughly dressed or whisked, until all the 
loose scurf and incrustations are removed ; afterward have the following 
ointment well rubbed in. Mind the man who whisks the horse goes 
near no other animal for eight and forty hours. See that every portion 
of the skin, from the tip of the nose to the point of the tail, is anointed; 
mark that no crevice or irregularity escapes, from the bottom of the 
coronet to the apex of the ears. 

Liniment for Mange. 

Animal glycerin Four parts. 

Creosote Half a part. 

Oil of turpentine One part. 

Oil of juniper Half a part. 

Mix all together, shake well, and use. 

It is impossible to state accurately how much will be required to dress 
the horse — the disease, the coat, and the size vary so materially in dif- 
ferent animals. About one pint and a half is, however, the general 
quantity employed for one application ; every portion of the coat must 
be saturated, and in that condition the animal should be left till two 
clear days have expired. Thus, supposing the liniment to be used upon a 
Monday, it is left on until the following Thursday. Then have the sur- 
face washed with soft soap and warm water; dry the body and allow 
the animal to stand in a warm spot as before, so that every portion of 
moisture may evaporate. Afterward employ the whisk as has been pre- 
viously directed; subsequently repeat the anointing. That operation 
must be again gone through for the third and last time after two clear 
days have once more expired, when the disease ought to be cured ; all 
the insects should have perished, and the skin have been benefited by 
the stimulation to which it has been subjected. 

There are many preparations employed to cure mange. All have 
some repute, though all (save that already given) are attended with 
some danger. The author, however, will recite two, at the same time 
warning the reader that neither of those which follow can be sincerelv 
recommended. 

Ointment for Mange. 

Strong mercurial ointment Three ounces. 

Soft soap One pound and a half. 

Mix. 

15 



226 PRURIGO. 

Wash for Mange. 

Corrosive sublimate One drachm. 

Spirits of wine One ounce. 

Tobacco (made into an infusion) One ounce. 

Hot water (which is to be poured into the tobacco) . . One quart. 
Dissolve the corrosive sublimate in the spirits of wine. Soak the tobacco in 
the boiling water. When cold, mix. 

The question has been much debated, " whether man can derive the 
itch from an animal?" Imaginary proofs favoring the possibility are 
every now and then confidently promulgated ; but all doubts seem to 
have been put to rest by the investigations conducted by M. Bourguig- 
non. That gentleman demonstrated the unfitness of one creature to 
support the parasite generated by another. Horses may be violently 
irritated by insects bred by fowls; but, remove the birds, the supply 
ceases, and the irritation dies away. So an individual handling mangy 
horses may get some of the acari upon him and cause vexatious itching; 
but let the man keep away from the contaminated stable and the sensa- 
tion is quickly lost. The repeated and repeated renewal of the pest 
gives a seeming warranty to the popular belief. Certain disorders 
assuredly are communicable throughout every species of life, as though 
to prove to the stubbornness of mankind that all nature is akin. Such 
are hydrophobia in the dog, and glanders in the horse; were all affec- 
tions, however, equally interchangeable, the inhabitants of this world 
would speedily become one breathing mass of disease. 

PRURIGO. 

This affection may lead many a gentleman to imagine his horse has 

caught the mange; the lead- 
ing symptom in each disorder 
is the same. Excessive irrita- 
bility of the skin is, in prurigo, 
generally exhibited during the 
spring of the year; the animal 
will rub itself with a fury which 
often removes portions of the 
coat, but which never exposes the 
dry and corrugated patches that 
characterize genuine mange. 
THE PROOF OF PRURIGO. j^. j^ ^^^^ aunoyiug to behold 

the horse, when in the stable, scrubbing its neck upon the division to the 
stall • it is provoking to witness the animal leave its corn for the same 




RING- WORM. 227 

employment. It excites the fancy of the master and conjures up the 
dread of every cleanly horse proprietor; the symptom is, however, 
easily eradicated. It only denotes heat of body; let a portion of the 
hay be abstracted and a couple of bundles ot cut grass be allowed each 
day; let a mash be given night and morning, until the bowels freely 
respond, and, without further measures, the annoyance usually ceases. 

The irritation may not, however, subside so quickly as shall be desired ; 
to hasten its departure, either of the annexed may be applied externally : 

Washes for Prurigo. 

Animal glycerin One part. 

Simple water or rose-water Two pArts. 

Mix. 

Sulphuric acid One part. 

Water Ten parts. 

Mix. 

Creosote One part. 

Oil Eight parts. 

Mix. 

Either of these probably will answer, but the writer strongly recom- 
mends the first ; at the same time it is well to try and reach the source 
of the disease, or to improve the blood. For this purpose the following 
drink should be given every night after the last meal : — 

Drink for Prurigo. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and give half a pint for a dose. 

A week after the irritation has subsided, all medicine may be with- 
drawn; but it is always well to see that a sufficiency of exercise be 
given, and to allow an extra feed of oats with a pot of porter every 
day. These last will restore the strength ; for every form of disease is 
to be regarded as the most emphatic testimony of weakness. 



RING-WORM. 

This affection at first is simply a disfigurement ; but, if neglected, it 
becomes a troublesome disorder. In the primary instance, the hair falls 
off in patches, leaving visible a scurfy skin ; some say there are pimples 
under the scurf, but the author must confess he was iinable to discern 
them in those cases which he examined. The scurfy particles, however, 
are somewhat large, and resemble, in no little degree, the scales which 



228 



RING-WORM. 



form the bulk of bran. At first, these pieces or flakes of cuticle cover 
the entire surface ; but ultimately they congregate upon the circum- 
ference, which, by their numbers, is made 
©to assume a raised appearance. Should 
the ring-worm not be attended to, the 
outward margin at last begins to ulcerate, 
becoming the more difficult to eradicate 
in proportion to the time of its contin- 
uance and the extent of the ulceration. 
For the cure of ring-worm, a rigid at- 
tention to cleanliness is imperative; the 
parts should, at all events, be washed night 
A REPRESENTATION OF A RING-WORM ON A aud momlng wltli mild sosp, and hot, soft 

water; to the places — these having been 
rendered perfectly dry — one of the following preparations must be 
applied and laid rather thickly upon the denuded spot: — 

Ointments for Ring-worm. 

Animal glycerin One ounce. 

Spermaceti . . One ounce. 

Iodide of lead Two drachms. 

Rub the glycerin and spermaceti together, and, when thoroughly incor- 
porated, add the iodide of lead, or use any of the appended : — 

Nitrate of lead Two drachms. 

Simple ointment Two ounces. 

Mix. 

Oil of tar Half an ounce. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Creosote Two drachms. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Oil of juniper One drachm. 

Simple cerate One ounce. 

Mix. 

Besides the above, which are not one-half of the remedies in general 
use, some parties are loud in the commendation of a saturated solution 
of a sulphate of iron. Others are strongly prejudiced in favor of pure 
liquor plumbi ; another class protest they employ nothing but compound 
alum -water, which invariably and speedily affords relief There are 
people who regard a strong infusion of tobacco as a charm for ring- 
worm ; while another set will hear of nothing for that purpose but helle- 
bore ointment. 



SURFEIT. 229 

The author, however, has always employed the first preparation, which, 
in his hand, has never occasioned disappointment. It has, however, 
always been aided by the following drink, administered every night. 
No medicine could possibly act better than those here proposed ; they 
seem to go directly to the skin ; but as the state of the integument may 
be accepted as evidence with regard to the condition of the entire body, 
a most powerful alterative may not, in this instance, be out of place. 

Drink for Bing-ivorm. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and gi\e every night half a pint for a dose. 

This drink must be continued till every vestige of the disease has 
disappeared. However, it frequently happens that, after the central 
bare spot has been cured, ulceration remains about the circumference. 
Treat this with either of the following lotions : — 

Permanganate of potash Half an ounce. 

Water Three ounces. 

Mix, and smear gently over the part six times daily. Or — 

Chloride of zinc Two scruples. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, 

The ulcers should be punctually moistened with the last preparation 
at the periods already stated, and the horse should be thrown up during 
the treatment. The food should be of the best, and a month ought to 
be allowed for the cure. 

SURFEIT. 

Old practitioners generally entertain very false opinions concerning 
the importance of surfeit; they being inclined to employ more stringent 
measures for its eradication than the real nature of the disease demands. 
The affection is rather annoying than dangerous; it makes its appear- 
ance suddenly, and seldom involves the entire body. It is a sudden rash 
or a quantity of heat spots bursting out upon the skin ; the spots are 
round, blunt, and slightly elevated ; they resemble the blotches which, 
during hot weather, often appear upon the human countenance, only the 
horse's integument being so much more active than the skin of man, the 
outward affection in the animal may be regarded as proportionably the 
more severe. Frequently, during the eruption, the pulse is tranquil, the 
spirit and appetite being good; when such is the case, the lumps mostly 
disappear in a few hours. Still the food should be looked to ; about 
eight pounds of hay should be abstracted and two bundles of cut grass 



230 



SURFEIT. 



allowed per clay; the corn should be kept up or even increased, and a 
handful of sound, old beans, which have been properly crushed, should 
be mingled with each feed. The stable should be airy, and the following 
drink should be given every day for a month : — 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Water One quart. 

Mix, and give once daily, one pint for a dose. 




A HORSE AFFECTED 'WITH SURFEIT. 



Should the horse be young, and have been neglected throughout the 
winter, a surfeit sometimes appears which is of a different character. 
The lumps do not disappear ; but an exudation escapes from the center 
of each. The constitution is involved in this form of disease, and the 
malady, if unattended to, is apt to settle upon the lungs. 

Should the attack assume the last appearance, on no account take the 
animal out, not even for exercise. Attend to the perfect cleanliness of 
the bed, and keep every door and window in the stable open during the 
day. Feed as directed for the previous form of surfeit, and allow two 
or three bran mashes whenever the bowels appear constipated ; but do 
not give mashes after the constipation is removed. The desire is not to 
weaken the system by purgation, but simply to relieve the body; admin- 
ister the drink recommended above only, giving one night and morn- 
ing, but, should the appetite suffer, reduce the quantity, or withhold all 
medicine. 

Clothe warmly ; bandage the legs, and remove from the stall to a loose 



HIDE-BOUND. 



231 



box ; if the pulse suddenly sink, two pots of stout may be given at dif- 
ferent times during the day. If the appetite is bad, good gruel instead 
of water must be constantly in the manger ; cut carrots, if presented a 
few at a time, will generally be accepted. However, with all such care, 
a very speedy termination is not to be expected ; nature is casting forth 
something imbibed during a winter of neglect, and no art can quicken 
the process. The shortest cases of this kind mostly last a fortnight, 
during which time the treatment, and the entire treatment, merely con- 
sists in good nursing and in liberally supporting the body. 



HIDE-BOUND. 

Strictly speaking, the condition signified by the above term is not so 
much a disease as the consequence of exposure, of poor provender, and 
of neglect. Thrust a horse which has been accustomed to wholesome 
food and a warm stable, thrust such an animal into a straw yard and 
leave it there through the long and severe winter of this climate. Let 




ONE OF THE CAUSES OF HIDE-BOUND IN HORSES. 

the creature which has been used to have its wants attended to and its 
desires watched — let it for months exist upon a stinted quantity of such 
hay as the farmer cannot sell— let it go for days without liquid, and at 
night be driven by the horns of bullocks to lie among the snow or to 
shiver in the rain — let an animal so nurtured be forced to brave such 
vicissitudes, and in the spring the belly will be down, and the harsh, 
unyielding skin will everywhere adhere close to the substance which it 
covers. 



232 LICE. 

Straw yards are abominations into which no feeling man should thrust 
the horse he prizes; and no feeling man should long possess a horse 
without esteeming it. The docility is so complete, the obedience so 
entire, and the intelligence so acute, that it is hard to suppose a mortal 
possessing a creature thus endowed, without something more than a 
sheer regard for property growing up between the master and the 
servant. 

Every amiable sentiment is appealed to by the absolute trustfulness 
of the quadruped. It appears to give itself, without reservation, to the 
man who becomes its proprietor. Though gregarious in its nature, yet, 
at the owner's will, it lives alone. It eats according to human pleasure, 
and it even grows to love the imprisonment under which it is doomed to 
exist. Cruelty cannot interfere with its content. Brutality may maim 
its body and wear out its life ; but as its death approaches, it faces the 
knacker with the same trustfulness which induced it, when in its prime, 
to yield up every attribute of existence to gain the torture and abuse 
of an ungrateful world. 

Liberal food, clean lodging, soft bed, healthy exercise, and good 
grooming compose the only medicine imperative for the cure of hide- 
bound. The relief, however, may be hastened by the daily administra- 
tion of two of those tonics and alterative drinks which act so directly 
upon the skin : — 

Drink for Hide-hound. 

Liquor arsenicalis Half an ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron One ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, and give as a dose. 

LICE. 

These parasites are the consequences natural to the states of filth and 
debility. Insects, which have been mistaken for lice, sometimes infest 
large stables and almost drive the horses frantic with the itching they 
provoke. Application after application, intended to destroy lice, is 
made use of. Every recognized source of contagion is exterminated. 
Internal as well as external medicine is resorted to, but every endeavor 
to remove the annoyance signally fails. The horses are fat and feed 
upon the best; yet they seem to breed the parasites peculiar to the 
opposite condition. At last some one points to the hen-roost which 
leans against the stable. That building is pulled down, and with it the 
nuisance disappears. 

It may to the reader appear strange that the application which killed 
lice did not destroy the insects derived from fowls. Those parasites 



LARVA IN THE SKIN. 



233 



which were upon the horse doubtless perished ; but the dressing being 
washed off, the pests came again and again, being supplied by the source 
of all the mischief. 

Insects breathe through the skin. On that account, a hornet is more 
readily destroyed by dropping a little oil upon the exterior surface than 
by immersing the head in hydrocyanic acid. All, therefore, requisite 
for the removal of lice is smearing the entire body with any cheap oil 
or grease. But when the skin is washed, the business is not ended. 
Generally the horse troubled with lice is hide-bound, and may have 
various other affections derived from the debility which generated the 
parasites. 

LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

These annoyances are another result of turning an animal out to 
grass, the fly whence the trouble is derived never entering the stable. 
The insect rejoices in the freedom of the field ; and man, by turning out 
his horse, finds the creature a fitting spot for the deposit of its eggs. 
This body is carefully deposited upon the back or sides. The warmth 




a. The winter residence of the larva. 
6. The summer abode of the insect, 
c. A drop of tallow falling upon the center of the 
abscess. 



of the animal hatches the larva ; no sooner is it endowed with life, than, 
with the instinct of its kind, it burrows into the skin. The integument 
of the horse, however thick it may appear, is soon pierced by the active 
little maggot, which, thus snugly housed, retains its lodging until the 
following spring. During the winter, a small lump denotes its abiding 
place; but as the second summer progresses, a tolerably large abscess 
is instituted. 

The interior of the abscess, of course, contains pus. Upon that 



1. The spot through which the larva breathes. 

2. The insect, full size. 

3. The mouth of the parasite. 

4. The pus surrounding the body, and upon which 
the creature lives. 

5. The sac of the abscess. 

6. The fat of the horse, or the a/lipose tissue much 
swollen and inflamed. 

7. The skin. 

8. The superficial muscle. 

9. The muscle proper to the body of the animal. 




DIAGRAM OF THE LARVA ABSCESS, DIVIDED 
THROUGH ITS CENTER. 



secretion the insect lives and thrives. The inhabitant of a warm abode, 
and surrounded by its food, the early period of life no doubt is, for an 



234 LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

inactive being, highly agreeable. A division of one of these abscesses, 
when fully matured, is represented in the second cut, page 233. 

Such swellings are acutely painful and prove the sources of much 
annoyance. They mostly occur upon the back. The saddle cannot be 
laid on one of these tumors; and, as the spine supports much of the 
harness, the proprietor has the vexation of beholding his horse rendered 
perfectly useless ; for suffering, should service be exacted, occasions the 
creature to excite displeasure ; besides, the pranks thus provoked by tor- 
ture often continue after the cause has been removed. 

Upon the summit of the abscess appears a black spot. It is at this 
spot the larva receives the air needed to support a dormant existence. 
This fact being known to certain people, the knowledge is employed to 
destroy the parasite. The swelling is first slightly greased, and then a 
drop of melted tallow is let fall upon the breathing place. By such 
means the insect is effectually suffocated, and assuredly dies. 

Others employ a darning needle as the instrument of execution. The 
needle is thrust through the central spot into the swelling for three- 
eighths of an inch. The larva thereby is pierced, and the life certainly 
is sacrificed. 

Neither method occasions at the time the slightest pain to the horse, 
and therefore may by some persons be esteemed highly humane ; but, in 
the end, such plans of cure prove the very reverse. In either case the 
maggot dies ; but the business, unfortunately, is only rendered worse by 
killing the source of evil. The dead body putrefies. A foreign and 
corrupting substance beneath the skin may enlarge the abscess to many 
times its original dimensions. After all, the system has to cast forth 
the irritating matter, and for that purpose inflammation, with its attend- 
ant fever, must be perfected. Much suffering is thus occasioned, and 
the proprietor is, for several weeks, forced to forego the employment of 
a valuable servant. 

The safest, the surest, and the quickest manner of eradicating these 
parasites is, with the point of a lancet, slightly to enlarge the central 
opening, and then with the finger and thumb, applied on either side of 
the swelling, to squeeze out the intruder. The abscess rapidly disap- 
pears; and it only requires a few dabbings with the solution of chloride 
of zinc, one grain to the ounce, to close the wound. However, the best 
manner to avoid such annoyances is not to endeavor at saving money 
by treating a domesticated animal as though it were an untamed quad- 
ruped. 



WARTS. 



235 



WARTS. 

A wart, when of a fixed cartilaginous nature, should, in the horse, be 
eradicated immediately upon its appearance ; being permitted to exist, 
such growths always increase in number and in magnitude. By certain 
people, or rather by a tradition, these excrescences are imagined to 
breed, or it is thought that one can produce many. That warts are 
possessed of any such inherent property science refuses to acknowledge; 
but the same system which has generated one may generate several. 
The faculty of casting forth such growths inay even be encouraged by 
allowing them to remain ; and it is possible that the slight shock occa- 
sioned by their removal may alter the tendency of the body. Certain 
it is that, by some mysterious law, nature refuses to build up only for 
human agency to destroy. Youatt asserts that it was once fashionable 
to crop the ears of horses until animals were ultimately born with the 
ears ready shortened. 

A portrait of an extraordinary instance of warty disposition, show- 
ing the imprudence of permitting such accumulations to continue, is 
here given. The writer's experience cannot at 
all equal the disfigurement there represented; 
the animal was the favorite saddle-horse of a 
lady who could not bear the idea of the creature 
being put to pain. One wart first appeared 
upon the inside of the thigh ; the motion of the 
legs used to chafe the excrescence, and frequent 
discharges of blood were the consequence. The 
growth increased in size, and three times was it 
"charmed." However, the cure, said to be potent 
over the human being, was inoperative upon the 
horse; housewife's remedies were next resorted 
to, but all of these proved equally unsuccessful. 

At length, smaller warts began to show ; it would have been easy to 
have removed the original excrescence, but the numerous after-growths 
assumed a form which would have rendered them difficult to destroy. 
Many of them came with wide bases and slight elevation ; to have 
attempted the excision would have almost necessitated the flaying of a 
living body. The remedy, which at first was easy, was by time rendered 
impossible; the horse being permitted to exist, could only see imper- 
fectly. It could not move or feed without hemorrhage being provoked. 
The animal, of course, became useless; but still its kind mistress could 
not consent to its destruction. A country farrier, previous to the author 




PORTRAIT OF THE HEAD OP A 
HORSE WITH WARTS. 



236 WARTS. 

seeing the animal, liad slit up one nostril to relieve the breathing, which 
before was much impeded. Of course nothing could be done for such an 
object. 

There are three different sorts of growth, all of which are recognized 
under the term "wart." The first is of a cai'tilaginous nature and is 
contained in a distinct sac or shell, which last is entirely derived from 
the cuticle of the skin. Upon the sac being divided, the substance 
drops out, leaving behind a perfectly clean cavity, which soon disappears. 
Little hemorrhage and less pain attend upon this trivial operation. The 
second sort also is cartilaginous, but, unlike the first, is not contained 
within a cuticular sac. It adheres firmly to the skin, and is apt to grow 
large ; sometimes it becomes of enormous bulk, when regarded simply 
in its character of a wart. The crown is rough and unsightly; the body 
is vascular, and the growth, from its magnitude and uneven texture, is 
apt to be injured, when it never heals, but invariably exhibits the ulcera- 
tive process in a tedious form. This species of wart is often to be 
found, though of a smaller development, upon the human hand. The 
third variety is hardly to be esteemed a true wart, and would not here 
be named, were it not universally accepted as one of these abnormal 
growths. It consists of a cuticular case, inclosing a soft granular sub- 
stance. 

It is impossible always to distinguish the first and third from the 
second ; therefore, in a case of this kind, it is advisable to cut into the 
excrescence as soon as it is large enough to be operated upon. When 
the warts are ascertained to be inclosed in a defined cuticular shell, the 
quickest and the more humane practice is to take a sharp-pointed knife 
and impale them, or run the blade through each in succession. The 
edge should be away from the skin, and the knife being withdrawn 
with an upward, cutting motion, the sac and substance are both sun- 
dered. This accomplished, the interior is easily removed ; and all that 
can subsequently be necessary is to occasionally touch the part with the 
solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. 

When the growth proves of the fixed cartilaginous kind, no time 
should be lost in its removal. The quickest plan — and not, perhaps, 
the most painful method — of doing this is by means of the knife. The 
excrescence should be thoroughly excised, being sundered at the base. 
Some bleeding will follow. This may be readily commanded by having 
at hand a saucepan of water boiling on a small fire7 Into the heated 
liquid a budding-iron should be placed, by which artifice sufficient heat 
is obtained to stimulate the open mouths of the vessels when the instru- 
ment is applied to the bleeding surface, without any danger being incurred 
of destroying the living flesh. 



TUMORS. 



237 



Should excision be objected to, the next best plan is the use of caus- 
tic. Strong acetic acid, only to be generally obtained as aromatic vin- 
egar, is the mildest cautery ; the next in strength is butter of antimony ; 
after that, ranks nitrate of silver, or lunar caustic ; and lastly, comes a 
preparation invented by Mr. Woodger, to whose perceptions the veteri- 
nary profession is so largely indebted. It consists of sulphuric acid, 
made into a paste vrith powdered sulphur, and applied by means of a 
flat piece of wood. 

Whichever remedy is adopted, it must be remembered that the appli- 
cation will occupy time in exact proportion to the mildness of the means 
employed. It may also be proper to hint to the reader that, as an 
animal has no foreknowledge to alarm its anticipatory fears, and as, the 
anguish past, the mind of the creature does not linger upon painful 
recollections, probably the knife is to be very much preferred. 

Some people remove warts by ligatures. To this custom the author 
strongly objects, for the following reasons : Because the process is slow ; 
because the pain is great and continuous, till the removal is accom- 
plished ; because the ligature soon becomes filthy, the wai-t, when large, 
often turning putrid before it falls off; and because, when small, the 
breadth of base and the slight projection render fixing a ligature an 
utter impossibility. 



TUMORS. 

It is impossible to particularize the nature of every tumor to which 
the horse is subject, such formations being so very various. Seldom 
are two cases met with in which a precisely 
similar structure is developed. More seldom 
are two cases encountered located upon the 
same part. These growths are liable to every 
possible change. One may be very small, but 
extremely malignant, or of that kind which 
seems to resent the slightest Interference. Em- 
ploy the knife to this last sort, and incurable 
ulceration may start up. All remedies may be 
powerless and the life may be sacrificed. Such 
growths are, happily, rare in the equine species ; 
but the author has heard of their occurrence, 
although it has not been his misfortune to en- 
counter one. Another shall be of such enor- 
mous size as to impede the motions, yet will be perfectly bland in its 
nature. A portrait, not of the largest tumor which the writer has wit- 
nessed, but of the most awkwardly situated, is represented herewith. 




an abnormal grouvth upon a 
horse's chest. 



238 TUMORS. 

It was not malignant. The horse which carried about this burden was 
brought to the veterinary college during the time when the author was 
attached to that establishment. The animal had previously been under 
the treatment of various veterinary surgeons. All had cut and cauterized 
the enlargement,- but without reducing its magnitude. The wounds healed 
quickly, and the constitution appeared not to be in the slightest manner 
affected. 

Why was not the swelling removed with the knife, when the kindly 
nature of the growth had been ascertained? For good and sufficient 
reasons. No operation could, with the slightest prospect of success, be 
hazarded. In the first place, nature is apt to resent the loss of so large 
a substance, or, in other words, although the surgery may be perfect, the 
life, from some unexplained cause, is likely to depart before the operation 
is finished. In the next place, most bland tumors, when of magnitude, 
are of a semi-cartilaginous nature, and spring either from tendon or 
from bone — usually from the latter. This tumor impeded the action; 
hence it was inferred that the substance ramified among the fibers of the 
pectoral muscles. Those fibers are large, and are divided ; they present 
interspaces, between which the abnormal growth might readily penetrate. 
Now, unless every portion of the tumor were excised, the enlargement 
would sprout again, and the surgeon would be disgraced. To remove 
the pectoral muscle of a man, would be esteemed of little consequence, 
so that the life was preserved. But the limbs of the horse constitute 
the value of the creature's existence ; and to disable these from being 
safely moved, would be to return a burdensome life to the proprietor. 
Therefore that which is compatible with human surgery could not be 
entertained in veterinary science. 

A tumor may be small and soft, yet it must be respected. It may be 
hard, or even ulcerated and large, still its excision may be readily accom- 
plished. The majority of these growths which appear upon the horse, 
however, are not malignant. Nevertheless, let every man consult some 
duly qualified veterinarian of experience before he resorts to measures 
which, possibly, may lead to the acutest regret. 

One caution must be given before the subject is concluded. Gray 
horses, which have grown paler with age, or have become white, are 
liable to an incurable and malignant disease termed melanosis, which 
hereafter will be fully described. The presence of this disorder is 
generally testified by the appearance of some external tumor. Unless 
that enlargement be of great size and admirably situated for removal, 
it on no account should be interfered with. Let, therefore, every light- 
gray or white horse having a tumor be submitted to some experienced 
judgment, and let the owner be guided by the opinion he receives. 



SWOLLEN OR FILLED LEGS. 



239 



SWOLLEN OR FILLED LEGS. 

These are one of the most common troubles of the stable ; the coach- 
man is very apt to complain piteously that in the morning he is sure to 
find such and such a horse with the legs filled. Commonly the hinder 
limbs below the hock are thus aff"ected ; sometimes the fore legs below 
the knee will be involved. The coachman mostly bandages the parts. 
In mild cases this resort may answer; but in bad instances the leg 





THE horse's LEQ of A NATURAL SIZE. 



THE horse's leg WHEN PILLED. 



above the bandage is apt to enlarge. The cloth or flannel, before ap- 
plied, should be wetted ; this, however, afi'ords but a temporary relief; 
the wet often causes the hair to curl, and the uniformity of the appear- 
ance is thereby spoiled. After some time, the bandage frequently leaves 
its impress upon the leg, and it is astonishing how long in peculiar cases 
this impress will continue. 

Swollen legs mostly occur in heavy animals and in overgrown carriage 
horses; such creatures are of weakly or soft constitutions. They have 
a vast tendency to become partially dropsical. Fast work exhausts the 
system of the carriage horse, while high food stimulates its natural dis- 
position toward disease. With heavy horses, the prolonged hours of 
labor are equally debilitating, and the Sunday's stagnation generates 
disorder; neither have any innate hardiness to withstand injurious in- 
fluences; both, when highly fat, have the weakness inherent to their 
constitutions greatly increased. The quadruped, loaded with the accu- 
mulations of many months' repletion, may please the eye of the master; 
but it is rendered more subject to disease, and less capable of labor or of 
activity. 

Persons who require fast work, should employ light vehicles aud 
small horses ; the creatures should be principally supported by grain — 
a little hay may be allowed during certain times, when the animal's 



240 SIT FAST. 

attention requires to be engaged ; but the chief sustenance ought to 
consist of oats and beans. When the carriage is not wanted for the 
day, care should be taken to see the groom gives at least four hours' 
exercise. 

With regard to the heavy animals, the custom of blowing them out 
with chaff or hay is not to be commended. A good horse is surely 
deserving of good provender, and the best manger food is not generally 
deserving of any higher character than the word "good "may convey. 
A horse for work should be in sound flesh without being fat; when not 
required, it should not be allowed to remain in the stable all day. Who, 
however, ever saw a cart-horse being exercised ? These animals have 
to stand in the stall of a heated stable throughout the Sabbath ; the 
excuse is, that the creatures may enjoy a day's rest. But four hours' 
easy exercise given at different times, although it might occupy the time 
of the attendant, would assuredly greatly add to the comfort of the 
quadrupeds which he is paid to look after. 

When a horse is troubled with swollen legs, take it from the stall and 
place it in a roomy, loose box ; nothing more quickly removes this affec- 
tion than easy and natural motion. At grass, dropsy generally attacks 
the abdomen ; but the author has not heard of the legs being affected 
in the field, the limbs there being in constant action. Having placed 
the animal in a loose box, abstain from giving hay for some weeks ; pro- 
cure some ground oak-bark ; having damped the corn, sprinkle a handful 
of the powder among each feed of oats. Particularly attend to the 
exercise ; and should the legs still enlarge, do not allow bandages to be 
employed, but set both groom and coachman hand-rubbing till the natu- 
ral appearance is restored. 

SITFAST. 

This, whenever it occurs, provokes great vexation. Generally it 
affects animals of the highest value or of fast capabilities, which are 
used only for saddle purposes. The affection consists of a patch of 
horn, resembling a corn upon the human foot. These patches are not 
absolutely large, though of course in size they vary. Neither are they 
all similar in form or in thickness. In one respect, however, a family 
likeness runs throughout the kind. They are not simple corns, but their 
different nature is shown by a margin of ulceration. The situation 
which they invariably occupy is under the saddle-tree. Their presence, 
of course, obliges the horse to be disused ; and they are the more an- 
noying, since there is no chance of these comparatively trifling ailments 
disappearing without treatment. The treatment, moreover, cannot be 
speedy. Whatever measures may be resorted to, time is necessary for 




SIT FAST. ^ 24i 

the cure ; and, during this space, the proprietor sees his horse in high 
health and spirits, but is forbidden to mount it because of a petty 
blemish which, in his eyes, is perfectly contemptible. 
Sitfasts, though all said to be caused by the fric- 
tion of the saddle, have several distinct excitants. 
The saddle is without life, and cannot of itself injure 
the quadruped. It is common to account for a sit- 
fast by saying the saddle does not fit. Such may 
occasionally be the case ; for a saddle, if badly 
made, will chafe the skin and produce a sitfast. But 
this cause is in operation less often than is imagined. 
A retired surgeon, whom the author had the honor 
of visiting at Reigate, wore a cork leg. That a sitpast, as it appears 

° UPON A horse's back. 

gentleman stated that, whenever the leg used to 
chafe the stump to which it was attached, he always considered his body 
was out of order. Medicine then was taken, and the symptom disap- 
peared. We mortals refuse to think the horse ails anything unless the 
animal is alarmingly prostrated. All smaller ills are disregarded ; yet 
that derangement of the stomach which caused the stump of a man's leg 
to become painful from pressure may, if not attended to, also cause the 
skin of a horse to exhibit a sitfast. 

An awkward horseman is the more frequent source of the complaint. 
There are gentlemen so very energetic as riders that the best of saddles 
may be readily moved under them. The saddle must be well made 
indeed which can, under no circumstances, be stirred upon the back to 
that extent which is required to generate a sitfast. Loose girths w^ill 
likewise establish the nuisance, and so also may the saddle-cloth when- 
ever it is hastily put on so as to become thrown into a fold when the 
horse is mounted. 

The speediest cure for a sitfast is the knife. The excrescence is 
quickly removed ; and the wound, if treated with the solution of chloride 
of zinc, one grain to an ounce of water, soon heals. A more tedious 
plan of removal, and one not recommended by any proper feeling, is to 
rub into the sitfast, every night and morning, a small quantity of blis- 
tering ointment. Such is the usual direction ; but the ointment may be 
applied, for some time, to a layer of compact horn, before the true skin 
or flesh beneath is aflPected. The unguent must therefore cover the per- 
haps ulcerated margin of the sitfast; and even then it is a tedious and 
a painful operation, not likely to improve the disposition of an animal 
which it is so desirable to keep free from every excitement. 

While the sitfast is being operated upon, the bowels should be ren- 
dered pultaceous by bran mashes. Four of these per diem will usually 

16 



242 GREASE. 

loosen the most constipated body in two days. That effect being gained, 
while the food is liberal and the animal is led to plenty of exercise, give 
one of those drinks, night and morning, which are tonic to the system, 
but seem to exhaust their virtue upon the skin. 

Drink for Sit fasts. 

Liquor arsenicalis Half an ounce. 

Tincture of muriate of iron . . . Three-quarters of an ounce. 

Water One pint. 

Mix, and give. 

GREASE. 

This filthy disorder is a disgrace to every person concerned with the 
building in which it occurs ; it proves neglect in the proprietor, want of 
fitness or positive idleness in the groom, and culpable ignorance or the 
absence of the slightest moral courage in all people entering the doors 
of the stable. It is one of those disorders which it is easier to prevent 
than to cure. By an ordinary regard to cleanliness, and by an average 
attention to the necessities of the animal, this taint may be avoided ; 
wherever it is witnessed, it not only argues the human being to whom 
the building belongs to be in the lowest stage of degradation, but it also 
testifies to the sufferings endured by the poor creatures which are com- 
pelled to drag out life in such custody. 

The grease is, in the primary instance, inflammation of the sebaceous 
glands of the legs ; but it soon extends beyond the limits of its origin, 
and involves the deeper-seated structui'es. A white leg is more subject 
to the disorder than one of another color, and the fore limbs are almost 
exempted from the ravages of grease. The reason of that exemption is 
found in the greater proximity of the anterior extremities to the heart 
or to the center of the circulation. Consequently the vitality in the fore 
legs is more active, and the flow of blood much more energetic ; hence 
the anterior extremities can resist that ailment which fixes with impunity 
upon the posterior limbs. Added to this, in the fore legs the vessels 
describe almost perpendicular lines, whereas in the hind members the 
arterial current is impeded by numerous angles ; these conditions doubt- 
less operate upon the health of parts, but, above everything else, ranks 
the fact that the front legs are not subject to the same external causes 
as are the members more backwardly located. The stalls are drained 
from the manger to the gangway ; consequently all the contamination 
of the space in which the horse is confined flows toward the hind feet ; 
there are, moreover, other reasons, which the intelligence of the reader 
will not require should be particularized. 



GREASE. 243 

Grease is banished from every decent stable ; it may, however, be occa- 
sionally encountered in situations very much secluded ; there yet remain 
places whence so foul a disgrace is never absent. The wretched animals 
which are employed in brick-yards, in dust-carts, and in drawing canal 
boats are hardly ever fi'ee from this loathsome disorder. These creatures 
labor incessantly, and are removed far from the wholesome check which 
brutality receives from public opinion ; they are resigned to the mercies 
of men who, as a class, are certainly not the most refined, and are seldom 
inconvenienced by any excess of feeling. The places, not stables, into 
which the miserable quadrupeds are thrust can rarely be entered without 
the peculiar smell which announces the existence of grease almost over- 
powering the stranger. The fact is unpleasant to human sense, but it is 
only right that the probable effect upon the creature, which is doomed 
for the duration of its weary life to inhale such an atmosphere, should 
be considered. 

Smell is perhaps the most acute sense with which the equine race are 
endowed; the horse can appreciate that in which the human being vainly 
endeavors to detect even the slightest odor. Not only is the scent far 
more acute than that of man, but the two beings have to be compared 
as regards their habits ; the animal is most cleanly in its tastes. Flesh 
it abhors, and all fatty substance it shrinks from ; men eat such things 
with appetite. Then, the human subject can dwell, and even labor, in a 
tainted atmosphere with comparative impunity. A quadruped may be 
forced to toil in such a place ; but those who oblige the creature to do 
this kind of work know the certain consequences of the act. They buy 
cheap and old horses — animals which have suifered much, and have but 
a year or two longer to exist. Were younger or dearer quadrupeds 
purchased, in which an energetic constitution would render disease more 
malignant, and were such animals obliged to breathe such contamination, 
the loss in every way would be fearful. 

There is, at present, a great fuss made about sanitary laws ; but the 
attention of those to whom such subjects are confided seems to be en- 
grossed by man and his excretions. No one yet appears to have imagined 
that the subject involves life in all its varieties ; the horse cannot exist 
in the air which human lungs have exhausted ; man cannot live in the 
atmosphere in which the horse has perished. The two creatures are 
not, therefore, entirely distinct ; but the open nostrils and huge lungs 
of one horse can consume the oxygen which would support many men. 
Then, the dung of the horse, which is always exposed, gives off fumes 
only slightly less dangerous than those which emanate from the human 
body. Yet officers pry into alleys and into courts ; they enter the hab- 
itations of the poor, and count the number of those who sleep in each 



244 GREASE. 

room. The impacted people are pointed to as the source of certain dis- 
eases, and society shudders as the medical report is circulated. No one, 
however, visits the stable ; no one inquires whether horses live in the 
space which affords sufficient atmosphere to support existence ; no one 
has yet traced disease in man as probably originating in the close and 
contaminated fumes of nearly every London mews. Still, if the over- 
crowded rooms of the poor merit an elaborate report as so very danger- 
ous to society, may not the stifling and reeking condition of the stables 
deserve a passing comment in its relation to the same effect ? 

Cutting the hair from, and thereby exposing the hinder heels to the 
operation of cold and of wet is no unfrequent cause of grease. Such 
is a common practice with lazy horsekeepers when not stimulated by the 
proprietor's eye. In winter, when the legs most require warmth and 
protection, the heels are deprived of the covering which nature intended 
should protect them ; and parts where the blood flows most tardily are 
laid bare to the effects of evaporation and of frost. When the animal 
returns soiled from work, most grooms will sluice a pail of cold water 
over the legs ; the dirt is thereby washed off, but the legs are suddenly 
chilled, and soon become more cold, because of the moisture which they 
retain and of the evaporation which ensues ; for very few stablemen, 
finding the appearance pleasing to mortal perceptions, think about the 
comfort of the creature which is principally concerned. 

Sudden chill striking a part, and followed by gradually-increasing 
cold, will certainly induce congestion ; the foundation of disease is thus 
laid. The better plan would be to instruct the groom that appearance 
is secondary to the welfare of his charge. Order the man not to mind 
about leaving his horses so very clean and tidy ; never allow the hair, 
which grows long and luxuriant about the heels, to be cut off. Leave 
strict orders that, when the animal returns with dirty legs, the stableman 
is to take several wisps of straw and rub them until the surface is quite 
dry. The absence of wet will greatly add to the comfort of the horse, 
while the friction will increase the circulation and prove the very best 
preventive to disease. With the moisture, of course, much of the dirt 
must be removed ; any which is left behind will readily fall out on the 
following morning, upon the hair being carefully hand-rubbed and 
combed. However, mind and see this is done, for it entails some 
trouble ; and, if you are content with merely giving orders, the " old 
buffer's megrims" are sure to be laughed at and disobeyed. 

Turning out to grass, especially during the colder months, when the 
wet is particularly abundant, and the bite peculiarly short, is another 
fruitful source of this affection. If a well-bred, aged animal, which has 
done its work, after a life spent under the protection of the stable and 



GREASE. 



245 



in the enjoyment of its carefully-prepared diet, is, from mistaken mo- 
tives, turned into the field, life may be prolonged, but it is at the expense 
of much suffering, with the almo.st certain visitation of grease in a 
virulent form. 

The earliest symptom of approaching grease 
is enlargement of the legs, accompanied by con- 
siderable heat of the skin. If the animals be 
now observed, they will be seen to be uneasy in 
their stalls ; the hinder feet are occasionally 
noisily stamped upon the pavement. Should 
the hair be examined, it will be discovered loaded 
with scurf about the roots, while one hind foot 
will be frequently seen employed to scratch the 
back of the opposite leg. 

Should these indications attract no attention, 
the hairs soon begin to stand on end or to pro- 
ject outward, as though each was actuated by a 
separate purpose, and each desired nothing so much as to avoid its fel- 
lows. At the same time, the part begins to exude a thick, unctuous 
moisture, from which the disease derives its name. This hangs upon all 
the hairs of the heel in heavy drops. It is an offensive secretion. It 
emits a remarkably pungent and a very peculiar odor, which, once 
inhaled, is never afterward to be forgotten. 

Should no regard be now bestowed upon the sufferer, and should the 
horse be worked on despite the lameness which it now exhibits, the skin 




HORSE SCKdTCHING ONE LEO 
WITH THE OTHER FOOT — A SYMP- 
TOM OF THE EARLIEST APPEAR- 
ANCE OF GREASE. 





FIRST STAGE OP CONFIRMED GREASE. 
EXUDATION. 



THE SECOND STAGE OP CONFIRMED GREASE. 
CRACKS. 



swells, while cracks, deep and wide, appear upon the inflamed integument. 
The lines of division ulcerate, sometimes very badly ; a thin, discolored, 
and unhealthy pus mingles with the discharge ; the odor grows still more 
abominable, while the wretched animal becomes yet more lame. 




246 GREASE. • 

Should, even at this period, no proper remedy be applied to check 
the disease, the leg enlarges. Proud flesh, or fungoid granulations, 
sprout from the lines of ulceration. The granulations grow in bunches, 
and have a ragged surface. Often the masses are 
of great size, and shake, as though about to fall, 
with every movement of the foot. The points, 
from exposure, become dry and hard ; their na- 
ture, from that of fungoid granulations, changes 
to a substance resembling horn, like which, they 
are without sensation. These bunches have been 
named " grapes," which they are vulgarly thought 
to resemble. The likeness, however, is very dis- 
tant — the one being pleasant to look upon, the 
other forming a painful and disgusting spectacle. 

THE THIRD STAGE OF CON- -jt- . ... , , . , « , i i i 

FIRMED GREASE. HORNY Howcver inscnsitive the points or the bunches 

BUNCHES WHICH ARE COM- , ,-, i.,., 10, i 1 ,,1 t 

MONLY CALLED GRAPES. Hiay bccomc, thc limb itseli, throughout the disor- 
der, possesses a morbid sensibility. The gentlest 
touch occasions exquisite torture, and the animal will tremble lest the 
agony should be repeated. Upon the slightest impression, the leg is 
instantly snatched up, nor is it trusted again upon the earth until fatigue 
necessitates rest or till the cause of suffering has departed. Horses 
have even suppressed their urine, lest the fluid, splashing upon the seat 
of disease, should provoke any access of the infliction. Few greasy 
animals ever have a bed under them, the straw of which might arrest 
the liquid in its flight. Indeed, such a luxury might save them from one 
source of torture, but assuredly would start up another. The ends of 
the straw, pricking or even touching the disorder, would cause such 
agony as must occasion the animal constantly to stand in terror. 

One peculiarity, witnessed during grease, has not been indicated in 
the above illustrations. It has been purposely omitted, because, though 
invariably attendant upon the disorder, it in reality forms no part of the 
malady, being only a sympathetic effect. The cutis is continuous with 
the coronet and lamina, which secrete the outward horn of the hoof. 
Any disease fixing upon the one, of course cannot but affect the other. 
The irritation which involves the skin of the leg, therefore, necessarily 
stimulates the growth of the foot. The hoof of a greasy leg, from this 
cause, often becomes of enormous dimensions ; but this peculiarity has 
not been noticed, because it was desired to keep the attention of the 
reader fixed wholly upon the more immediate symptoms of the loathsome 
affection. 

The remedy for grease is simple enough. Indeed, did not a sense of 
duty oblige it to be resorted to, the smell would, in the majority of per- 



GREASE. 247 

sons, induce it to be employed. In the first place, clip ofif the hair— if 
any remains to be cut off. The natural protector of the heels now can 
conserve nothing. It can only heat the skin and retain the discharge. 
This being accomplished, if the leg merely be hot and scurfy, have it 
thoroughly cleansed with curd soap and warm water. Then a cloth, 
saturated with the lotion for the earliest stage of grease, should be 
laid upon the inflamed integument. This should be removed so soon 
as it becomes warm, and another, also dripping, should immediately 
supply its place. Thus a wet, cold cloth should constantly cover the 
part till the heat is destroyed, or at all events is greatly mitigated. 

For this purpose, two men are required, one to remove and the other 
to apply. Four old cloths will be necessary. These, when removed, 
should be flung over a line, so that as large a space as possible may be 
exposed to the cooling action of the atmosphere. There is nothing so 
disagreeable in performing this office as might at first appear. The 
active agent of the lotion is a powerful disinfectant and deodorizer. 
The first cloth removes almost all the fetor, and hanging the wrappers 
subsequently over the line effectually purifies the atmosphere. The 
part being reduced to a comparatively natural temperature, the after- 
treatment consists in renewing the cloths so often as the heat returns; 
and in otherwise moistening the limb with some of the subjoined lotion 
thrice daily : — 

Lotion for the earliest stage of Grease. 

Animal glyceria Half a pint. 

Chloride of zinc Half an ounce. 

Water Six quarts. 

To be employed after the manner already directed. 
When the cracks, with ulceration, appear, the previous lotion is too 
weak to be of much service ; but the same treatment must be adopted : 
only one of the lotions subsequently given should then be used : — 

Lotion for the ulcerative stage of Grease. 

Permanganate of potash or phosphoric acid One pint. 

Water Six quarts. 

Or— 

Chloride of zinc One ounce. 

Creosote Four ounces. 

Strong solution of oak bark One gallon. 

Both to be used after the manner of the previous solution. 
Should the spurious granulations have begun to sprout, lose no time 
in having the horse cast. Have near at hand a small pot, with a char- 
coal fire beneath it. Let the vessel be full of boiling water. Within 
the fluid, previous to the casting, insert several irons ; then throw the 



248 GREASE. 

animal. With a keen knife excise the external bunches of proud flesh. 
As each lump is removed, much bleeding will ensue ; therefore, before 
using the knife again, take an iron and lay it flat upon the raw surface. 
Should one not check the hemorrhage, return the first to the saucepan 
and apply a second. It is necessary to operate with as small a loss of 
blood as possible; for horses having grease are always old and debil- 
itated. In this manner proceed till all the external growths are cut 
away. Then let the animal rise. Enough has been suffered for one 
occasion; more agony the exhausted system of the animal might not 
sustain. Besides, with every attention concerning the irons, the bleed- 
ing, generally, will not permit more to be accomplished. 

One thing has been forgotten. When removing the fungoid excres- 
cences, it is always well, for the comfort of the operator, to have the leg 
previously saturated with chloride of zinc; also to have a man, with a 
sponge and a quart of the solution, ready to bathe the limb as fresh sur- 
faces are exposed. Subsequently wet the leg frequently with the lotion 
last recommended. 

In another three days {he animal may, a second time, be cast. The 
operation being again confined to the crop of growths which on the 
former occasion were exposed; all the previous directions should also 
be strictly carried out. After three days have once more been suffered 
to elapse, the horse, if necessary, should be thrown for the last time, and 
the knife once more employed. The after-treatment will depend much 
upon circumstances. If the ulceration predominates, employ the last 
lotion. Should the granulations appear likely to grow, make use of the 
first solution of chloride of zinc — only it should be double the strength 
which was originally recommended. When both ulceration and granu- 
lation appear equal, the first and last lotions may be alternated. 

Such are the chief remedies necessary for the cure of grease. The 
other measures are : the removal to a loose box thickly bedded with 
refuse tan ; the food should be liberal — old beans are now of every ser- 
vice ; each feed of oats should be rendered damp, and a handful of 
ground oak-bark ought to be thoroughly mixed with it. For medicine, 
those excellent tonic and alterative drinks may be thus prepared, and 
given daily : — 

Drink for Grease. 

Liquor arsenicalis One ounce. 

Tincture of the muriate of iron .... One ounce and a half. 

Porter or stout One quart. 

Mix, and give one pint night and morning. 
Chopped roots, speared wheat, hay tea, and a little cut grass, should 
it be in season, are all proper in this disease. At the same time, walk- 



MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 



249 



ing exercise is much to be commended. Motion quickens the circula- 
tion ; but in grease it seems, in a manner which is not understood, also 
to allay pain. A horse having grease will be led out of the stable 
limping lame ; but after an hour's exercise it may return walking firmly 
and almost soundly. After cleanliness, good food and medicine, nothing 
is so beneficial to grease as moderate exercise. 



MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS. 

These names are to be traced to no derivation, but in their arbitrary 
signification they denote a certain condition of the parts situated on the 
points of principal flexion in either limb. Mallenders appear upon the 
back of the knee; sallenders are located in front of the hock. Both, 
in the first place, are scurfy patches exhibiting a roughened state of hair 
and suggesting considerable irritability. Either, if neglected, will degen- 
erate into a troublesome sore from which a foul discharge will issue. 





MALLENDERS, OR A SCURFY PATCH AT THE SALLENDERS, OR A SCURFY PATCH IN FROST 

BACK OF THE KNEE. OF THE HOCK. 

With ordinary care they neither do much harm ; but are rather regarded 
as proofs of idleness and as eyesores, than as actual diseases, to which 
importance they now seldom attain. For their relief it is essential to 
pay scrupulous attention to cleanliness ; as, when the coat suffers from 
neglect, it is very probable the same cause may likewise influence the 
constitution. Therefore, always begin the treatment with the tonic 
alterative drinks described on tlje previous page; at the same time 
applying with friction a little of the annexed ointment thrice daily : — 

Ointment for Mallenders and Sallenders. 

Animal glycerin One ounce. 

Mercurial ointment Two drachms. 

Powdered camphor Two drachms. 

Spermaceti . One ounce. 

Incorporate all thoroughly together, and apply as directed. 

When the scurf, through neglect, degenerates into a sore, treat after 



250 CRACKED HEELS. 

the manner subsequently advised for cracked heels. But in every case 
of this kind always begin the treatment with a change of stable attend- 
ant; for where certain diseases appear, these are conclusive proof that 
duty is neglected. No remonstrance, no chiding, can amend the habits 
of the groom, who has, from drink or other indulgence, lost pride in the 
stable over which he should reign supreme. 

CRACKED HEELS. 

This is, save where very wrong-headed measures are pursued, the affec- 
tion peculiar to the cold and wet months of the year. Even during the 
inclement weather of the summer, however, the horse may, if badly man- 
aged, exhibit this form of disease. Should the hair, which nature with 
kind intention placed upon the fetlock, be ruthlessly cut away, the animal 
is thereby rendered liable to cracked heels. The wet very rarely pene- 
trates that designed defense. When it does, the ample covering of hair 
falling over the skin prevents evaporation, and the 
moisture rather promotes warmth than causes any 
excess of cold. The dirt of the road always lodges 
upon the surface of the hair, and if the horsekeeper 
exercise only ordinary care it can never soil the flesh. 
The liability induced by removal of the natural 
covering exemplifies the folly of those practices 
which have lately become so very fashionable as at 
the present time to be almost universal. But there 
has always appeared to exist in the human mind a 
restless desire to improve the beauty of the horse. 
Now the tail has been docked ; then the ears have 
been cut. A short space prior to these amend- 
ments, the skin was tampered with to produce a star, 
as a white spot upon the forehead was termed. At the passing hour 
almost every man who owns a horse must have the body clipped or 
singed. The length of hair is given in this climate as a necessary pro- 
vision. Nature never forms anything without its use ; though man in 
his ignorance may not always be able to comprehend her intention. 
Were finer coats desired, it would probably be wiser to obtain them by 
warming the stable, increasing the clothing, and avoiding those long 
stagnations during which the animal has to remain motionless before 
street doors. A long coat is a defense against a cold winter; and unless 
man provides against the consequences of our climate, it is evidently 
flagrantly wrong to deprive a dumb creature of the protection which 
nature has bestowed. 




THE HEEL OF A HORSE IN A 
CRACKED CONDITION. 



CRACKED HEELS. 251 

Shortening the coat, if anywhere justifiable, is certainly most pardon- 
able among hunters. Animals used for this purpose always have, or 
should have, plenty of attendance ; these creatures also are mostly re- 
quired during the autumn and early winter. Removing the coat cer- 
tainly does stimulate the body. The horse assuredly is capable of greater 
exertion immediately after the deprivation. At the same time, however, 
a greater susceptibility to disease is engendered, and often the deprived 
animal falls a victim to man's fancy, notwithstanding all the care and 
attention which the hunting-stable can command. A burst and then a 
check, when a piercing wind blows from the northeast, invariably pro- 
duces sad effects among the horses, especially at the commencement of 
the season. A gentleman who prizes the animal he rides should take 
it to "the meet" undipped; and, perhaps, should the run be long, the 
quadruped may hold a better place at the death than horses adorned 
after the prevailing fashion. 

The folly of the custom is shown in the animals attached to London 
vehicles. These horses are mostly wanted for spring service. The 
stimulant of the autumn is purchased at the cost of debility during the 
spring. The coat is shed the later because of the previous deprivation. 
When the summer hair is growing, the creature presents a very uneven 
and ragged appearance in consequence of the points of the new and the 
roots of the old coat being of opposite colors. The gentleman who, 
therefore, has his nag and carriage horses shorn of their natural cover- 
ings at the time when hunters are thrown up, beholds the objects of his 
pride deficient in animation and beggarly in aspect, while the animal 
that has been allowed to wear its native garments dashes past him in 
all the briskness of the season and the smartness of new apparel. 

The question of clipping and of singeing is simply this. Do you 
require your servant's services all the year round, or do you want its 
utmost exertions for a comparatively short space immediately subsequent 
to the removal of the outer hair; and, at how great a hazard are you 
prepared to purchase your wish ? 

Were the legs of horses allowed to retain that adornment which 
nature gave, and were the parts not shorn of their shaggy beauty — 
were men not inclined to confound the different breeds of horses, and, 
because the thorough-bred has clean legs, to imagine the cart-horse can 
be artificially made to display members equally fine — were masters more 
resolute in resisting the selfish suggestions of lazy grooms, who love to 
have the bushy heels clipped — were the stable-keeper not afraid of doing 
his duty, but would go down upon his knees and rub the fetlocks dry, 
instead of drenching them with water, and then leaving them to chap in 
moisture and in cold, — were these things attended to, there is no reason 



252 ' CRACKED HEELS. 

why cracked heels should not speedily become a thing which has been, 
but no longer is. 

However, if animals are exposed throughout the wintry season, under 
the pretense of being placed in a straw-yard, the proprietor must expect 
to take the creatures up with some defect. The worst case of cracked 
heels the author ever looked upon, was produced after the last-men- 
tioned method ; the skin was much thickened and deeply marked by fis- 
sures. In places it had sloughed, and where the integument was absent 
fearfully deep ulceration was established. Fortunately, the absorbing 
process had reached none of those important structures which are situ- 
ated about the heel of the horse; and the animal, after lengthened 
treatment, was cured. 

For cracked heels, if bad, the animal must rest, at all events till the 
parts are improved. When slight, always wash them with tepid water 
and mild soap, upon the animal's return to the stable ; dry them thoroughly 
with a soft leather; then damp them with the following: — 

Wash for Cracked Heels. 

Animal glycerin Half a pint. 

Chloride of zinc Two drachms. 

Strong solution of oak-bark One pint. 

Dissolve the zinc in water, then mix, and use thrice daily. 

Should sloughing and ulceration have commenced, that condition 
claims the first attention as being the most dangerous. 

Forbear all exercise while such a state exists. Throw up the animal. 
Allow it to rest in the stable. Give a few bran mashes or a little cut 
grass to open the bowels ; but do not take the horse out even for exer- 
cise while such an unhealthy action is in existence. Ulceration is too 
dangerous and morbid a process not to be ti*eated with every consider- 
ation ; and it is far too irritable and painful a state not to necessitate 
perfect inaction for its relief. Apply the following to the heels : — 

Wash for Ulcerated Cracked Heels. 

Animal glycerin or phosphoric acid Two ounces. 

Permanganate of potash or creosote .... Half an ounce. 

Water Three ounces. 

Mix, and apply six times daily. 

Upon the ulceration being arrested, the last prescription may be dis- 
carded, and the former recipe resorted to ; with these, however, it is 
always well to attend to the constitution. A drink, each day, composed 
of liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of the muriate of iron, one 
ounce ; water, half a pint, should be given every night. This compo- 
sition has been often recommended, but the author knows of none which 



CRACKED HEELS. 253 

is more beneficially tonic to the general system, and which, at the same 
time, acts so directly upon the skin. 

Stablemen are fond of urging various excuses to hide their disincli- 
nation for exertion. Thus it is common for such people to assert that 
the horse's heels cracked while the animal was out on a cold, a wet, or 
a windy day : this is nonsense. Stablemen, of course, do not desire the 
creatures which they look after to be exposed to that soil which it is 
their duty to remove ; but nature, that ordained the climate, formed the 
animal to endure it. 

Were not the heels clipped, nothing short of extreme stable neglect 
could occasion those parts to crack. If the hair is removed, nothing but 
excessive good fortune will prevent this affection. The groom in the 
last case is not to blame, should the heels become sore. However, the 
best method of avoiding this affection, where the hair is cut short, 
experience has proved to be the following : Upon return to the stable, 
wash the feet scrupulously clean with cold water ; then dry them thor- 
oughly. Use several cloths to effect the latter purpose, and do not 
relinquish the object while the slightest moisture remains ; nor cease to 
rub them until the parts are in a glow. Subsequently, smear over the 
heels a little glycerin; but even this will not in every instance prevent 
the affection. No care can render safe that which human folly has ex- 
posed. 



CHAPTER XI. 

SPECIFIC DISEASES — THEIR VARIETIES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



BROKEN WIND. 



Broken wind in the horse approaches very nearly to dry asthma in 
the human being. Man, however, can suit his work to his capabilities ; 
but all horses have only one employment, which, to be sure, may diflfer 







CONTULSIVE SPASM, INDUCED BT FATIGUE, IN A BROKEN-WIXDED HORSE. 

in its intensity ; still, the most afflicted animal always has to perform the 
severest kind of draught. Let any person propose that individuals 
having dry asthma should pull loaded trucks, to earn their bread or to 
purchase a right to live ; the cruelty of such a proposition would be 
apparent to the dullest sense. Yet is it the horse's doom that, no matter 
with what disease it may be afflicted, the animal must work or die. Old 
or sick, weak or disabled, still the body's toil must earn the creature's 
food and the master's profit. Spasm or agony can excuse no pause ; let 
the sufferer even slacken the space sufficiently to mitigate in some degree 
the pangs it endures, and the long whip, aided by the harsh voice of the 
driver, will urge the flagging cripple onward. The horse has no words 
to plead with ; the signs of its distress are not understood ; the law 
(254) 



BROKEN WIND. 255 

which assumes to protect it is a delusion ; the animal is given up, help- 
less, friendless, and unpitied, to the almost unrestrained barbarity of its 
master. It is born doomed to live in solitude, to wear its life out under 
the goad, and to yield up existence in a knacker's yard. 

" Broken wind " is a sad affliction ; it is the more sad because no men 
but the very careless or the very poor will keep an animal thus diseased. 
The author has known it to be a frequent reason given by the better 
class of horse proprietors for having the life destroyed ; which decision 
may have been quickened by the fact that the horse is generally old 
before this disease appears. In the knowledge of the writer there is 
no recorded instance of a colt having "broken wind." The malady is 
usually witnessed after the adult age has been attained, or during the 
latter period of life, whether the affection has been naturally induced or 
aggravated by the cruelty of man. 

It is said to have been produced suddenly ; thus a man has been 
reported to have ridden an untrained horse after the hounds, and so have 
provoked the disorder. Another is asserted to have galloped a nag with 
a stomach loaded either with food or water, and thus to have broken the 
wind. Doubtless the seeds of the disorder may by either process have 
been sown ; but that the disease was fully developed after either incident, 
is more than doubtful. 

The seat of this affliction is not confined to any one organ ; its ravage 
is universal. No part escapes ; that the entire animal economy can 
change all at once, like a trick in a Christmas pantomime, is a circum- 
stance which has yet to be established. The malady is most general 
among the agricultural districts ; the farmer's poor team, in many parts 
of England, seldom tastes much of that which can be taken to market. 
Cut grass constitutes its chief summer food ; the coat is rarely groomed ; 
the stable often left open, and only cleaned when manure is wanted. 
During the winter months the animals have to luxuriate in the straw- 
yard ; the body's abuse, in such horses, may readily lead to the body's 
degeneration. Green-meat will not support the strength, though upon 
it the life may be sustained. The occupiers of the soil would find it to 
their account, could the class be brought to bestow a little more atten- 
tion upon their living property. The years of labor would be prolonged, 
and the activity of the laborer be quickened ; fewer horses need then be 
kept, and the anxieties of the farmer would be lightened. Agricultural 
teams would not then be encountered slowly creeping along the high- 
way, and sleeping as they journeyed. Care naturally begets pride, and 
worth generally resides where pride is exhibited. Increased value would 
reward the farmer, whose animals would not then so often present the 
spectacle of horses doing slow work, being touched in the wind. 



256 BROKEN WIND. 

Broken wind is evidently a disorder of slow and of long growth ; any 
abuse may lay the foundation of such an affliction. Where abuse of life 
is possible, there folly is too often habitual ; thus repetition may hasten 
the development of broken wind, but no one act could provoke so 
lamentable a consequence. 

There is some dispute whether broken wind originates in the stom- 
ach or in the lungs. The mass of evidence would favor the opinion that 
originally it was a disease of the digestive organs ; but, as the disorder 
proceeds, all parts of the body appear to be involved. 

The symptoms of broken wind are a short, dry cough, which is 
described as "hacking,''^ and which may be readily imitated by any 
person making a coughing noise while he withholds from enlarging the 
mouth, moving the lips, or employing the tongue, but at the same time 
endeavoring to pronounce the word "hack." 

The cough arises from irritability of the larynx, the mucous membrane 
of which is directly continuous with that proper to the lungs, and is 
joined to that of the stomach, any disease of which organ is frequently 
accompanied by cough. 

The appetite is ravenously and unscrupulously morbid ; the thirst is 
insatiable ; the flatus is most abundant ; the dung is but half digested ; 
the abdomen is pendulous ; the coat is ragged, and the general aspect 
is dejected. 

The leading symptom, or that which is looked for as indicative of 
broken wind, is found in the breathing. Respiration is accomplished by 
a triple effort : inhalation is quick and single, expiration is slow and 
double. The air is drawn upon the lungs as by a gasp. This being 
quickly accomplished, the ribs commence to expel the vapor, and move 
laboriously to their utmost extent without being able to effect the pur- 
pose. The movement of the chest and the inhalation are counted as 
two efforts. Then ensues the third. The abdomen begins to rise, with 
an evident desire to aid in emptying the lungs by driving forward the 
diaphragm, and thereby diminishing the capacity of the thorax. These 
two last efforts are comparatively laborious ; but the double effort is only 
partially completed before a sense of suffocation forces the animal to 
gasp once more for breath. 

There certainly are several circumstances which favor the opinion that 
broken wind is a disease of the digestive organs. In the first place, the 
great majority of broken-winded horses are to be found in those stables 
where the animals are badly fed ; moreover, it is no unusual thing for a 
gentleman to turn his nag out to grass, or into the straw-yard, and to 
take it up broken winded. Then, again, low dealers, who frequent fairs 
and public houses, have a method of what they terra "setting broken 



BROKEN WIND. 25Y 

wind ; " this consists in pouring into the stomach various substances 
which cause the indicative symptom of the disease to be for a time con- 
cealed. Grease, tar, shot, and many filths are used for this purpose — 
anything which seems to induce nausea appears capable of producing 
such an effect. These things may conceal, but they cannot destroy, the 
characteristic cough ; a copious draught of cold water, by refreshing 
the stomach, will induce the restoration of all those signs natural to the 
disorder. 

Formerly there was very generally accepted a supposed cure for 
broken wind. The flatus is one of the most marked and troublesome 
symptoms of the disease ; that, when coaches had possession of the 
roads, rendered a broken-winded animal unsuited to run in such vehicles. 
To master the objection, and also, by relieving the intestines, to enable 
the broken-winded horse to live through the pace, a hole was bored into 
the rectum from without by means of a heated iron ; into this hole a leaden 
tube was inserted, and by that the flatus found egress without the outside 
passenger being unpleasantly aware of its perpetual escape. 

For broken wind, prevention is far more easy than cure; in fact, 
the utmost which science can at present accomplish is to relieve the dis- 
tress. To effect this, water should be given only at stated times, and 
never immediately before work. Four half pails may be allowed each 
four and twenty hours ; one the first thing in the morning, another the 
last thing at night, and the other two at convenient times during the 
day. Into every drink of water it is likewise well to mingle half an 
ounce of dilute phosphoric acid, or half a drachm of dilute sulphuric 
acid. 

Besides this allow oats and beans, five feeds each day, with only five 
pounds of hay; two pounds in the morning, when being dressed, and the 
remainder in the rack at night. Crush the oats and beans; thoroughly 
damp all the food before it is presented to the horse, and also scald the 
corn. 

Remove all bed by day, and muzzle when littered down for the night. 
Place a lump of rock-salt at one end of the manger, and at the other 
put a block of chalk. 

Such is the little science can propose for the alleviation of an incapaci- 
tating disorder. All other recommendations rather concern the owner 
than the stable. A horse thus afflicted should never be pushed hard or 
called upon for any extraordinary exertion. Fatigue, when severe, 
is apt to provoke alarming spasm ; a spectacle which the author once 
witnessed, of an animal which had journeyed far, pulling a heavy load, 
is represented at the head of this article. The horse had only paused 
while the carter took his beer, and had received nothing but hay upon 

n 



258 BROKEN WIND. 

the road. It had traveled all night, and it was still in the chains when 
the writer beheld it on the afternoon of the succeeding day. 

After death, the body which has suffered from the disease declares the 
ravage of the malady. The lungs are larger than usual, and always 
pallid ; small bladders containing gas are upon their surface, and when 
ta,keu from their cavity the organs do not collapse as do the healthy 
lungs, nor can the air by compression be entirely driven forth. The 
hand being forced upon the surface elicits crepitation, or provokes a 
crackling sound, induced by the vapor passing out of one cell into 
another; for broken wind causes the terminations of the bronchial 
tubes to give way or to freely communicate one with another. Now, it 
is within these air-cells that the blood absorbs the oxygen from the 
inhaled atmosphere, and purifies itself by yielding up carbonic acid. 
How much must the destruction of their integrity, therefore, affect the 
entire body I Impure blood cannot nourish a healthy life ; and the 
reader, after the above explanation, will easily account for the ragged 
and dejected aspect of the horse with broken wind. 

The diaphragm is also disintegrated ; the fibers of its tendinous por- 
tion are separated. The stomach is distended and thin ; the bowels are 
enlarged and blown out with gas; the muscle of the anus is flaccid; the 
visible mucous membranes are of an unhealthy tint ; the lining of the 
windpipe and the bronchial tubes is greatly thickened ; the muscles are 
soft and deficient in color; and, where fat should have been, is only 
found a gelatinous fluid. 

Having related the living and the morbid changes which characterize 
the malady, it remains now to inform the reader how so terrible a scourge 

may be avoided. The horse is so valuable a 
helpmate that it merits, for its own sake, 
man's greatest care. Never, for any reason, 
therefore, drive the animal from the shelter 
of the stable to the exposure of the field; 
never turn the steed which has thriven upon 
prepared food to the starvation of a "run 
at grass," or rankness of the "straw-yard." 
Never, for cheapness, buy damaged proven- 
der ; never load a famishing stomach ; be 
generous in all provision for those creatures 
which devote their lives to your service. 
Never, where such a thing is possible, per- 
mit the groom to ride or exercise the nag out of your sight. Be very 
attentive that the times of watering are rigidly observed. Never suffer 
an animal to quit the stable soon after it has drank or eaten. Be very 




HOW TO HEAR THE SOUND MADE TVITniX 
THE horse's windpipe. 



MELANOSIS. 



259 



attentive to all coughs; accustom yourself to the sound of the healthy 
horse's windpipe, that when the slightest change of noise indicates the 
smallest change of structure, you may be prepared to recognize and to 
meet the enemy before disease has had time to fix upon the membrane. 

Having laid down the above rules, it may, to the ignorant, appear 
that every possible movement of the proprietor has been interfered with ; 
that, in fact, the horse owner has been left no freedom of action. To 
the informed, however, it will seem that nothing more than every gentle- 
man should observe has been proposed ; and the horseman will smile 
when he learns that by such trivial matters can so heavy an affliction as 
broken wind be avoided. 



MELANOSIS. 



A quantity of black deposit, accumulated in large quantities upon 
certain parts of the frame, and contained within an 
increased amount of cellular tissue, constitutes this 
disease. At an early period swellings may be 
detected externally ; they may be as small as a 
millet-seed, or as large round as a plate. These 
may remain dormant for years, or, if cut into before 
they start into activity, are almost white, and very 
glistening in parts, much resembling cartilage. 

As time progresses, however, all the white disap- 
pears, and its place is filled by a material not unlike 
lamp-black when thoroughly incorporated with water. These growths 
increase both in number and in size. Should one be cut into after it is 




A MELANOTIC TUMOR DIVIDED, 
SHOWINii THE INTERIOR IN THE 
MIDDLE STAGE OF DEVELOP- 
MENT. 




THE SPLEEN OP A HORSE LOADED WITH MELANOTIC TUMORS. THE BLACK SPOT TOWARD THE RIGHT HAND REPRE- 
SENTS ONE OP THE GROWTHS DIVIDED. 



fully matured, an inky fluid follows the knife. The disease is not con- 
fined simply to external tumors; the coverings to nerves, the coats of 
arteries, and the recesses of the closest bones, are each found to bear 
minute evidences of a melanotic tendency. The deposit, however, seems 
principally to attack the internal organs. The interior of the sheath is 
not unfrequently clogged to that degree which forbids the passage of the 



260 



MELANOSIS. 



natural emission ; while the preceding engraving of a loaded spleen by 
no means represents an extreme case. 

A tumor should be admirably placed for operation, and its removal 
should be almost imperative, before the surgeon presumes to meddle 
with it. As a general rule, the best treatment for melanosis is to let 
it alone. Our present knowledge points to no medicine which can pre- 
vent or disperse such deposits, and the tumors appear to resent the 
slightest interference. The integrity of one swelling being violated 
.seems to start off the disease with enraged intensity. If let alone, 
melanosis may exist for years, and cause little inconvenience to the 
body in which it resides. The horse is, by its daily service, exposed to 
various accidents. The large majority of the tribe perish before their 
youth has passed. The animal may, therefore, cease to live by other 
causes than disease, or die before disease has become formidable. But 
irritate the system by employment of the knife, and a lamentable malady 
may speedily render the knacker's office an act of charity. 

Above all, let the master not permit any man to blister, seton, rowel, 
fire, stimulate, or slough out the tumor; such deeds are cruel folly. 
Bleeding is worse than useless. Purging weakens the body which dis- 
ease is sapping. All medicines used in ignorance are probable hazards. 
Let such things, therefore, be discarded ; but if something must be done, 
let the animal have daily an eight-ounce dose of any bland vegetable 
oil. Some linseed may likewise be mingled with the corn, or a decoction 
of the whole linseed may be presented as drink before the seeds them- 
selves are given with the oats. 

It is but natural to connect melanosis with the changed aspect of the 




THE COLORED HORSES 'WHICH ALONE ARE EXPOSED TO MELANOSIS. TO THE LETT IS THE OLD HORSE, WHICH 
HAS BEEN gray; TO THE RIGHT IS THE YOUNG ANIMAL, WHICH WILL WITH AGE BECOME WHITE. 



skin. A young gray horse seems to be exempt ; but as the dark hairs 
disappear from the coat, and the animal with age turns white, a black 



MELANOSIS. 261 

deposit accumulates upon vai'ious parts of the body. Creatures of other 
colors are not liable to so terrible a scourge ; and seeing that the disease 
is in some manner connected with a change in the skin, probably some 
attention to the integumental covering might be of service. 

All use of the curry-comb should be forbidden. The dressing should 
be long continued, only with the brush ; but it cannot, at the same time, 
be too gentle. Twice a week the body should be anointed with the 
following : — 

Animal glycerin One part. 

Rose-water Two parts. 

Mix. 

A brush should be moistened with the liquid, and the hair of the body 
should be rendered thoroughly damp, not wet, with the fluid. The after- 
dressing should consist in the long employment of the brush, so as to 
carry the glycerin from the hair and to lodge it upon the cuticle. 

Glycerin has the peculiar property of destroying scurf; therefore, if 
glycerin be used, the curry-comb may be dispensed with. It likewise 
renders soft and moist the cuticle, which invariably becomes harsh and 
dry with age. Acting thus, it will, in the human subject, so far restore 
the color to the hair as to conceal the presence of the gray or white ones 
common to advancing years. The effect on one animal argues favorably 
for its action in another direction. 

A dappled gray is perhaps the most beautiful covering in which boun- 
teous nature could invest a graceful body. Creatures so clothed are 
usually the favorites of their owners, as well as generally the pets of the 
stable. Therefore the author may assert there are more than a few 
horse proprietors who would not bestow a thought upon any expense 
which could secure to them the services of their much-prized steeds. 

When melanosis threatens, a tumor no larger than an egg generally 
appears upon some part of the body. It may show on any locality. It 
has no fixed abode. It is hard to the touch, and apparently devoid of 
sensibility. In this state the disease may remain for one, or it may 
continue stationary for six, years. When the next and the more active 
stage commences, the tumor suddenly enlarges. It becomes soft in 
places, and will fluctuate under the pressure of the fingers. The horse, 
at the same time, grows slothful. The tumor, which previously seemed 
in no way to affect the animal, by its enlargement marks the departure 
of all spirit. This sluggishness rapidly increases till the poorest owner 
becomes dissatisfied with the perpetual use of the goad. 

The body, when opened, generally displays a condition which, from 
the outward signs, was far from expected. The internal organs are 
covered with tumors. Numberless morbid growths, of various dimen- 




262 WATER FARCY. 

sions and in every stage of development, crowd upon every part. These 

readily account for that disinclination to move which characterized the 

latter days of existence. 

There is one test for melanosis which does not invariably meet with 

a response, but which, when successful, seldom deceives. This is a pim- 
ple near to the root of the dock ; it is very 
rarely of magnitude ; there may only be one or 
there may be several, and the largest may not 
exceed the dimensions of half a pea. When, 
however, such an indication can be detected 
upon a gray horse which is turning white, the 
evidence is almost conclusive. The author does 
not know an instance, where it has suggested 
the presence of melanosis, that the post-mortem 

THE SIGN THAT TELLS OF THE . . 

EXISTENCE OF MELANOSIS. cxamination has contradicted the indication. 

With regard to the ultimate termination of 
this disorder, the author has no experience. Horses thus affected are 
always slaughtered when the second stage interferes with their utility ; 
but, judging from the similarity of the disease in man and in the animal, 
it is conjectured the last stage in each would be alike. 

WATER FARCY. 

Water farcy, like so many equine disorders, is the offspring of weak- 
ness. Man, having a servant willing to work and incapable of complain- 
ing, too often proportions the toil only to the master's desire or the 
master's convenience. Many horses — which perform slow labor — are in 
harness eighteen hours out of the four and twenty ; their rest is while 
the carter drinks, eats, and sleeps. No, not even can they enjoy such 
brief respite as is afforded by avarice to the laboring fellow-being; often 
is one of the drivers seen soundly sleeping on the top of the load which 
the stiff and jaded animals are compelled to draw. Thus the horse's 
toil is almost constant ; wagoners are well aware that many horses sleep 
while in the shafts or in the chains. Overcome by fatigue, the animals 
doze, but continue to walk and to pull the burden onward. Who, know- 
ing such a fact, can wonder that a living frame thus abused should often 
bow beneath its yoke, and, through death, set torture at defiance ? 

Water farcy is a warning which nature gives to human selfishness; 
it is, when rightly viewed, an intimation that, if the owner does not use 
the life intrusted to him more gently, the common parent will speedily 
take the sufferer to its rest. The complaint proceeds from debility ; 
should the cause of exhaustion be continued, the affection soon changes 



WATER FARCY. 



263 



its character. Water farcy is dropsy of one Hud leg ; very rarely does 
the malady involve two members. Such is the form of the admonition ; 
but the labor undiminished, or the dropsy removed by means of coarse 
and drastic medicines, the local affection speedily becomes a constitu- 
tional disorder ; and true farcy releases an ill-used slave from custody 
of the tyrant who has abused his power. 

Horses that are liable to water farcy are mostly of the heavy breed, 
or are animals which perform slow work. It is usual, on a Saturday 
night, for the driver to throw much provender before such creatures, and 
then to lock the stable door, satisfied he has discharged his duty. 

Often he does not visit them on the Sunday ; the creatures pass " the 
best of all the seven" confined in a close atmosphere, and eating food 
Tv^hich they have contaminated by breathing upon. The man observes 
the day of rest himself, and takes his ease; for the "brutes" he has 
heaped up rack and man- 

ger_so they have to eat; /,,^.^:^;^^, v:^^i|,,V^,,)[C$^, 
what more can dumb an- ' "' ^ - - ^ - . - 

imals require ? Upon 
opening the door on Mon- 
day morning, he may see 
one horse with a swollen 
leg. The drudge general- 
ly, not invariably, is lame, 
and holds the enlarged 
member in the air; the 
coat stares ; the aspect is 
dull ; and much of the 
abundance which was 

placed before the animal remains untouched. The poor creature was 
too tired and in too much pain to eat ; but agony has created a con- 
suming thirst, and it will drink the foulest water. 

The horse doctor is sent for. In the opinions of veterinary surgeons 
there are two kinds of water farcy — one springs from debility, the other 
is accompanied with irritable symptoms. It, however, requires no vast 
knowledge of physiology to recognize debility and irritability as the chil- 
dren of one parent ; indeed, most veterinarians admit the sameness in 
practice, however much they may dispute it in theory. They bleed, purge, 
and send in half a dozen diuretic balls, when, the swelling having been 
removed by such coarse measures, the horse, still further weakened, is 
once more put to its work. 

Let every man who keeps cart-horses view a case of water farcy as a 
caution, proceeding direct from nature, that the management of his stable 




■^■^;??^-««?5^i4f > ^ -'^^-i^-' 



THE caster's first APPEARANCE IN THE STABLE ON A 
MONDAY MORNING. 



264 WATER FARCY. 

requires immediate change. The work is too heavy; pecuniary loss will 
soon follow, if the system be not amended ; true is it, the writer has 
known men rated "good" in the world's report, and who were very 
"professing Christians" in their own esteem; he has known these men 
never to give more than ten pounds for a horse, and, at the time of pur- 
chase, the premeditated sin was to work out the life over which money 
had established authority. It is the most offensive feature of whai, is 
termed modern civilization that, rarely as individuals, never as a society, 
do mankind entertain the slightest sympathy for the animals by which 
they are surrounded. Most men are only eager for the services of tie 
horse; they do not regard its ailments with the smallest feeling; they 
seek a veterinary surgeon merely to restore their animal to labor, and 
care only for a fellow-creature's sufferings as these disable it from toil- 
ing for their profit. 

Water farcy 'is, however, an admonition which all men should under- 
stand ; the horse, when thus attacked, announces that farcy hovers over 
the stable. Let the work of the team be made less prolonged and less 
exhausting; let the provender be improved. Green food is no sufficient 
sustenance for a working horse ; it may fill the stomach, but it brings 
down the belly, and it impoverishes the blood. The team may not travel 
fast, but they are out for many hours; generally they cover more ground 
than horses of a quicker pace ; they also pull weights before which none 
but a cart-house would be harnessed. On the appearance of water farcy, 
therefore, let the distances be shortened and the loads lightened. 

Then, for remedial measures, let the diet be nourishing, the bed cleanly, 
the house drained and airy. As for exercise, let the horse, so soon as it 
can bear the motion, be gently led out morning, noon, and night, for 
one hour each time. Do not turn the creature from the stable to the 
field. Grass may be the cheapest food; but it never yet did a domesti- 
cated animal good "to blow itself out" upon such a diet. 

As for medicine, when the limb can bear friction, let it be well and 
often hand-rubbed ; the oftener and the longer the better. Every morn- 
ing saturate it with pails of cold water; wipe it dry immediately, and 
then set to work hand-rubbing the leg. This is all that is absolutely 
necessary, save that if the lameness continues longer than the first day, 
a few punctures may be made through the skin. These should be equally 
distributed, each being about three-eighths of an inch deep, and one 
inch long, so as to divide the skin but not to wound the muscles beneath. 
Through these incisions the fluid, by which the limb is distended, will 
escape. As for physic, the following ball should be given every morn- 
ing, if the proprietor can think a sick servant merits such trouble and 
expense : — , 



PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 265 

Iodide of iron One drachm. 

Powdered cantharides Two grains. 

Powdered arsenic One grain. 

Cayenne pepper One scruple. 

Sulphate of iron One drachm. 

Treacle and linseed meal ... A sufficiency. 

Make into a ball, and give. 

This should be made as it is wanted, for, by keeping, the ingredients 
become hard, and are apt, when given in that state, to cause injury to 
the animal. 

By such slight and simple means, water farcy has generally been re- 
moved ; but no delay should occur in having recourse to them, as some 
cases will set all endeavors at defiance, and delay is always dangerous 
where health is concerned. A few days of neglect will often permit the 
limb to become organized. It ceases to pit on pressure. Fibrin has 
been effused under the skin. The swollen leg is even harder than is the 
healthy member. Then the horse, should it escape true fai-cy, will carry 
about an enlarged member for the duration of its remaining life. 

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

This disease formerly was unknown, though at present it appears to 
be rather common. What is there can shut up the sight of man like 
ignorance ? It is but fair to conclude that purpura was as frequent in 
past times as it now is ; yet men, having professional zeal to quicken their 
recognitions, could not read what was before their eyes, because they 
had not been tutored to know and to understand it. It was so with our 
forefathers, and, we may not deny, it is so with the 
existing generation. Science begets an infatua- 
tion. Men, because they have learned much, imagine 
nature has no more lessons to enforce. At all 
events, they act as though such were their convic- 
tions; else why is it that genius every now and then 
startles pedantry, by widening the sphere of human 
perceptions ? 

The cause of this terrible affliction is a mystery. 
The horse has worked, fed, and looked well, when a horse's head deformed 

. 1 . BY PURPURA HEMOFKHAGICA. 

locked up for the night. The next day the animal is 
discovered breathing with difficulty, and having several parts of the body 
greatly enlarged. The creature appears, by the disorder, to be rendered 
stupid rather than insensible. It stands erect, but seems not to be 
acutely conscious of its condition. Not only are several portions of the 
horse's frame swollen beyond all recognition, but through the skin there 




266 PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

issues streams of serum fearfully variegated by the admixture of blood. 
The openings to the nostrils and the lips soon enlarge ; theu the tongue 
likewise increases in size, a portion of it hanging out of the mouth. 
The appetite is never entirely lost, though the affliction prevents deglu- 
tition. In this lamentable state the wretched horse may continue for 
several days, or the disorder may reach its termination in a few hours. 

As the horse begins to recover, extensive sloughs occur, generally in 
those parts which have been much enlarged. 

Recovery appears to restore the consciousness in some degree, and 
the life is prolonged at the expense of much suffering. The appetite 
remains. The power to eat is, nevertheless, slowly attained. The desire 
for fluids, however, appears to exist throughout the attack, and should 
be taken advantage of to nourish the patient, by presenting thin gruel in 
the place of water. 

Purpura hemorrhagica is universal congestion. If the body of an 
animal which has succumbed to this disease be examined, the cellular 
tissue will be found distended with serum and with blood of a dark 
venous character. In this case, therefore, a blood-letting judiciously 
managed may be beneficial. !No pulse can be felt, nor is any needed to 
guide the surgeon. So soon as the heaviness is ameliorated, the can is 
to be withdrawn, and the orifice is to be pinned up. The smaller the 
quantity taken the better, as the patient has no strength to spare. 
Should the congestion return, a second venesection may be imperative 
to relieve the vessels; such a resort, however, should be practiced only 
upon the conviction of its absolute necessity. 

Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, in two cases reported in "Blain's 
Veterinary Art," gave turpentine with success. Turpentine is, however, 
a potent diuretic to the horse, and therefore, the writer thinks, not the 
best diffusible stimulant in these cases. Preference would, by him, be 
given to sulphuric ether or to chloroform. Half an ounce of the last, 
blended with a pint of linseed oil, should be given in the earliest stage. 
Half an hour having elapsed, the dose may be repeated. No amend- 
ment being witnessed, discard the chloroform and administer two ounces 
of sulphuric ether in one pint of cold water. After a little space, as in 
the previous instance, more diluted ether may be administered, though 
it will seldom be required. 

It is imperative to be speedy in adopting the measures intended to 
relieve purpura; for the disease rapidly attains its termination. For 
that reason, if the breathing is distressed, as is pretty certain to be the 
case, at once perform tracheotomy. Impure oxygenation of the blood 
is one of the most active causes of congestion ; indeed, that state 
appears only possible during impeded respiration. 



STRANGLES. 26T 

The tongue often becomes infiltrated, and, hanging out of the mouth, 
renders the appearance of the head most unsightly. It is, when thus 
enlarged, a fixture, and is in danger of being injured by the teeth. So 
soon, therefore, as the member is protruded, several free incisions should 
be made through its integument. The organ should then be manipu- 
lated, so as to cause the fluid to exude. These processes should again 
and again be had recourse to so often as they are required to return the 
tongue to the mouth. 

The sloughing of the skin is a serious matter. It is treated by the 
solution of the chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce of water — 
applied by being squeezed from a sponge on to the denuded part. This 
lotion will not only promote healing, but it will also destroy the fetor 
which results from decomposition. 

After all, however, these cases are mostly very unsatisfactory. They 
would prove less so were tracheotomy more generally resorted to ; but, 
in some instances, the horse seems to be ren- 
dered stupid by the disease. Instead of court- 
ing man's assistance and yielding up itself to 
his will, it appears to resent every effort made 
for its relief, as though all it desired was per- 
mission to die in peace. The beautiful resig- 
nation and the pleading solicitude for human 
sympathy appear to be lost. The brain evi- 
dently is affected; and when it is known the 
purpura hemorrhagica consists in universal con- 
gestion, no wonder will be expressed that an 
organ so sympathetic as the brain is affected the hind leg op a horse enbur- 

. ING PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

during this disease. 

The condition of the animal suffering from this terrible disorder is 
Indeed dreadful. If the brain be oppressed, the body is deformed out 
of all recognition. The beauty of the animal is lost, and the carcass 
becomes so misshapen as to be commonly compared to a hippopotamus. 
The legs share with the trunk the general disorder; and from these, as 
from other parts, blood and serum will exude. 

STRANGLES. 

Strangles, in its effects upon the body of the horse, is similar to 
measles in the human being. Both are diseases peculiar to the young ; 
both sometimes occur after the attainment of maturity; and both are 
dangerous in proportion as their advent is delayed. Both, also, are 
attended with evil consequence if driven inward, or if any irregularity 
warps the even tenor of their course. 




268 



STRANGLES. 



Here, however, tlie similarity ends. Strangles is developed as an 
abscess under the jaw; measles appears as a rash all over the body. 
Both, however, are eruptive, and both are cast outward at some expense 
to the system. 

Strangles is peculiarly the property of the rich man's horse. It is 
spoken of as relieving the body of some matter prejudicial to the after- 
health. The author has known several poor men's horses which never 
exhibited strangles. Those animals certainly seemed none the worse 
for escaping the disorder. Nevertheless, it may relieve the body of the 
high-bred and tenderly-nurtured animal of something which might prove 
injurious if retained, although every quadruped does not appear to need 
such a cleansing. And the man must have some extraordinary faculty 
who would enter a certain stable, and point out the creatures which had 
suffered and which had escaped the strangles. Still, it may be, and 
probably is, an effort of nature to adapt the body to a sudden change of 
circumstances, though whether these circumstances are natural or induced 
remains to be proved. 

Highly-bred horses are cared for from the moment of their birth. Up 
to a certain period — varying in different parts of the country and in 
different animals — the colt is allowed to roam the field. All at once, 
however, it is taken up, and its education commences. From the dew, 
and from the grass under its feet and within its mouth, the colt is sud- 
denly removed to dry food, and is imprisoned inside a hot and fetid 
stable. Nature rebels against such treatment. The strangles is the 
consequence, after which the poor captive becomes better adapted to its 
unnatural situation. 

Strangles is ushered in by slight general indisposition, which, how- 
ever, does not pass away. Sickness rather hovers over the colt than 

plumps directly upon it. The ani- 
mal is then, in stable phraseology, 
"breeding strangles." After a few 
days, a stiffness of the neck is con- 
spicuous ; subsequently an enlarge- 
ment can be perceived. It is, at 
first, very hard, hot, and tender. A 
discharge from the nose appears. 
The symptoms of general disease 
become aggravated. The throat is 
sore ; the breathing is oppressed ; 
the discharge is copious ; the coat stares ; the appetite is lost ; the 
jreature stands, with eyes half closed, the picture of mute distress. 
At length the tumor softens. It becomes prominent at a particular 




THE HEAD OF A HORSE WITH STRANGLES. 



STRANGLES. 269 

spot. Upon this place the surgeon makes an incision. A pint or more 
of pus escapes, and the animal quickly recovers. 

Such is the history of a case of strangles, as the disorder generally 
develops itself Of course it will vary in degree, though in every instance 
a sufficient similarity will be apparent to guide the student. 

With regard to treatment : never purge or bleed a colt when it ex- 
hibits a dubious sickness. It may be "breeding strangles," and the 
strength then will be needed to cast off the disease. Give all the nour- 
ishment the animal can imbibe. If food should be rejected, whitened 
water, or boiling water into which some flour has been stirred, or thin 
grael, is useful for that purpose. A little green-meat is generally rel- 
ished. But, if the colt is not frightened at the approach of a stranger, 
the food should be offered, little at a time, by the hand — not forked into 
the rack or cast upon the ground, for the animal to breathe upon and 
then turn from with disgust. Corn, crushed and scalded, maybe allowed, 
if it can be eaten. No grooming must annoy the feverish body ; the 
clothing must be light; the bed should be ample, and scrupulously clean ; 
the loose box ought to be large, perfectly well drained, wath every door 
and window open during the day, and only partly closed at night. 

Some persons blister the abscess, and then apply a poultice over the 
blistered part : to this practice the author objects. In the first place, 
sufficient friction cannot be employed to insure the effects of a blister. 
In the second place, a blister is said to be endowed with the properties 
of bringing forwai'd or of dispersing a tumor. In strangles, one of these 
processes alone is desirable, the dispersion being much to be dreaded. 
In the third place, though oil and water are in their natures antagonistic, 
yet water will creep through a coating of oil, and warm water, especially, 
thickens the cuticle. This action may possibly prevent the vesicatory 
from reaching the cutis, should the emollient be applied immediately 
after the blister. In the last place, the weight of the poultice is likely 
to stretch the cloth in which it is applied ; when, being removed from the 
skin, the cold air of course finds its w^ay between the poultice and the 
tumor. Cold is not desirable wdiere w^e seek to promote suppuration ; 
but cold is increased by damping a surface, and allowing it to be swept 
by a current of air. Evaporation then takes place, and the warmth is 
decreased by many degrees. 

The writer prefers gently stimulating with the following mixture : — 

Spirits of turpentine Two parts. 

Laudanum One part. 

Spirits of camphor One part. 

This may be applied, by means of what cooks term a "paste brush," 




270 STRANGLES. 

morning, noon, and night, until soreness is produced. It will, at first, 
seem cool, and be grateful to the part. After every application, have 

ready three pieces of flannel — no 
house-cloth, no open and thin stuff, 
which some economical housewives 
presume to think is good enough 
for the stable, but soft, thick, and 
warm, new flannel, such as any feel- 
ing person would bind around a 
sore and inflamed part. Put these 
over the embrocation, and bind all 

A HORSE WITH STRANGLES WEARING AN EIGHT- «» ^ith a flaUUCl Cight-tailcd baud- 

TAiLED BANDAGE. ^gg^ ^j^ cight-tailcd baiidagc is 

simply a long piece of flannel having 
three slits at either end. Its use, and the manner of applying it, is 
shown in the above illustration. 

When the tumor points, the surgeon takes with him two assistants 
into the box where the horse is confined. One proceeds to apply the 
twitch ; this twitch is an instrument of torture — it is a strong stick, 
having a short loop of cord at one end. The sensitive upper lip of the 
horse is grasped by the assistant's left hand, which has previously been 
thrust through the loop of the twitch. The loop is next slid over the 
left hand, and with the right hand placed upon the lip, while the fellow- 
assistant, by twisting the stick round and round, tightens, and thus pinches 
into a ball this most sensitive lump of imprisoned flesh ; for in the upper 
lip of the horse resides the sense of touch — anatomy shows us it is more 
largely supplied with nerves than any other part in the body. 

The attendant, who had first put on the twitch, gives the stick to his 
companion, and lifts up one of the animal's legs. The horse, with its 
attention engrossed by the agony of its lip, is rendered disinclined to 
motion, and is comparatively powerless while standing on three legs. 
The surgeon then takes an abscess knife, not a lancet, which is a coarse 
and clumsy instrument — the lancet simply punctures, whereas in an 
abscess more is desirable. A free opening is always wished for ; and 
where living flesh is to be operated upon, it is, for very many reasons, 
preferable to do all the cutting at once. The knife is held lightly in the 
hand, with the thumb resting on the back of the blade. The horse, 
when it feels the incision, is apt, spite of the twitch, to drag suddenly 
backward. Thus it pulls against the back of the knife, and no injury 
can occur ; whereas, with a double-edged lancet, an ugly and a danger- 
ous wound has, by the motion of the animal, been inflicted. The thumb, 
in this situation, also serves another purpose. It allows only so much 



STRANGLES. 271 

of the blade to enter the abscess as is above the nail of the member — 
this is usually about three-quarters of an inch. The thickness of the 
skin, increased by disease, requires so much ; and if not, the pus, accu- 
mulated beneath the skin, will save the more important parts from being 
injured. 

The leg being raised and the head guided upward by the elevation of 
the twitch, the operator approaches the horse. He looks well at the 




OPENING THE ABSCESS OF STRANGLES. 



part he has to open, and mentally determines where to make his incision. 
He also ascertains the extent of the tumor. This is necessary; for if 
the swelling be to one side, a single incision will be sufficient; but if 
this extend (as is usually the case) from right to left, two incisions are 
requisite. In either case the surgeon seizes the left rein with the left 
hand, and, placing his right hand in a proper position, by a short and 
simple motion of the wrist the knife is driven through the skin. 

The horse, during every operation, is usually blinded. Darkness 
invariably increases terror, and is unnecessary, since the horse cannot 
see what is being done under its jaw ; nevertheless, the creature is obvi- 
ously amused by watching the people about it. From the behavior, 
we have no reason to imagine the animal draws any conclusions. To 
bhnd the horse is, therefore, to increase to fears of excessive timidity. 
It is easily accomplished. Double a handkerchief into close longitudinal 
folds ; then tie either end to the sides of the bridle, so that the handker- 
chief may rest upon the eyes, and the object is attained. 

Every case of strangles will not be settled so readily. Occasionally 
the soreness of the internal throat will cause much annoyance. The 
animal is continually gulping its saliva. When it attempts to drink, 
the fluid flows back through the nostrils. The animal will not eat, and 
the strangles or tumor may threaten to be absorbed. In such cases the 



2t2 • STRANGLES. 

food must be carefully prepai'ed. No maslies, made by merely pouring 
hot water into a pailful of bran, stirring it round once or twice and 
splashing the mess into the manger, will now do. Even malt mashes 
will not answer the purpose. Good gruel must be carefully prepared 
and frequently changed. The drink must also be varied, so as to tempt 
the sick stomach, — as a general rule, equal parts of grits, (not oatmeal,) 
linseed meal, bean or pea flour, may constitute the ingredients. Let the 
drink be always just warm when placed before the animal. Sometimes 
clover-hay, or simple hay tea, may form the basis of the drink ; some- 
times one or other of the constituents may be withdrawn. Too much 
care cannot be taken of the horse at this period. Good nursing is now 
the most effectual, as well as the cheapest medicine ; and all warranted 
expense at this time is a saving in the end. The breathing also is fre- 
quently most acutely distressed. In severe cases the symptoms are so 
alarming as to demand the immediate performance of tracheotomy. 
This the surgeon is forced to have recourse to, although at the time he 
knows it will only be temporarily required. When, though distressing, 
the disease is not of so fearful a character, relief may be sometimes 
obtained by mingling steam with the air which the animal inhales, and 
casting upon the source of vapor ten or fifteen drops of the etherial 
tincture of phosphorus. This last artifice may be renewed every quar- 
ter of an hour should it appear to afford even the slightest relief. 

Avoid physic as much as possible. In strangles, purge and kill is the 
rule. Open the bowels, if it be imperative, by green-meat ; if that should 
not answer, let them alone, however confined they may be. Let the fever 
rage, but do not potter with one drug and another "to cool" the body. 
Some horses suffer terribly when they have strangles. The reasons 
for such a difference have not hitherto been ascer- 
tained; but doubtless science will one day dis- 
cover them. In bad cases the tumor appears 
under the throat, but it is larger than usual, and 
longer in maturating than is customary. Tears, 
frequently mingled with pus, flow from the eyes ; 
a copious discharge runs from the nose ; the pen- 
dulous lips are disfigured by long bands of thick 
saliva; the coat is dull, erect, and rusty; the 
heavy lids close the sight ; often the nostrils 
become dropsical ; the breathing is fearful ; the 
tumor presses against the lai'ynx, and a roaring 
sound is audible at each inspiration. 

A BAD CASE OP STRANGLES. 

For this case no more must be done than was 
directed for the milder form of the disease. The animal may be gently 




._J 



STRANGLES. j,^„ 

cleansed, but this ofiSce must be tenderly performed ; for the filth will 
do far less harm to the horse than the provocation of irritability. 
Gruel, repeatedly changed, should always be within easy reach of the 
mouth; the pail should be hung upon a hook, so that the head may 
not be necessarily raised to reach the nourishment. A little of the sed- 
iment, strained from the gruel, should be placed in the manger, as some 
quadrupeds will only eat ; others will only drink ; a third class will be 
content with such nourishment as they can suck up from the more solid 
form of slops ; a fourth may all but starve, yet no coaxing will induce 
the sufferers to look at aught but the dry, hard food, which they dare 
not svi^allow. Most, however, will feed on green-meat, and this should 
always be at hand. Should the animal become worse, tracheotomy may 
be necessitated. Then stout and treacle should be liberally horned 
down — half a pound of treacle being mingled with the quart of stout, 
and the whole mixed with a quart of good thick gruel. However, give 
at one time only so much as can be taken without distress being occa- 
sioned. 

Such cases, bad as they may appear, are not to be despaired of; nor 
are the tumors, on any account, to be opened before they have thoroughly 
maturated. Hasty incisions may throw the abscesses back upon the 
system. When that is the case, real danger is provoked ; the horse sel- 
dom thrives afterward. 

In some instances the tumor will burst internally. It may find egress 
through the nostrils ; but if it burst into the large guttural pouches of 
the animal, the pus may be there imprisoned until it becomes inspissated, 
and, by the motion of the jaws, kneaded into numerous distinct masses, 
resembling small sea-side pebbles. Such has been witnessed, but should 
hardly now occur; since Professor Varnell, of the Royal Veterinary 
College, has invented an instrument by means of which these cavities 
can be effectually injected, and even washed out. 

Besides those varieties already mentioned, there is yet another form 
of strangles : that is, where no tumor appears beneath the jaws, but 
several form on other parts of the body. The greatest number of 
abscesses the author has heard of, being developed on one body, is seven. 
They generally contained about a pint of pus ; and, if the direction 
given for the treatment of strangles be observed, the animal will usually 
recover upon these being opened. 

The great danger of strangles is in the disease fixing upon any inter- 
nal organ ; the horse is of no use afterward. It sinks from bad to 
worse, till it resembles the illustration appended to " Chronic Indiges- 
tion." The best thing which can happen in such a case is the death of 
the wretched creature. To prevent so lamentable a termination to a 

18 



2U GLANDERS. 

generally mild affection, nurse with every possible care, and begrudge no 
expense which can add to the comfort of the patient. 

GLANDERS. 

This is the most loathsome disease to which the horse is subject. It 
is provoked by stimulating food combined with exhausting labor. It 
was formerly very common in posting stables ; long stage teams were 
seldom free from it. The London omnibuses, by night, are said to drive 
glandered horses, and the proprietors of those vehicles are reported to 
keep glandered stables. 

In all of such cases the food is of the best and most stimulating 
description — twenty pounds of oats and beans with five pounds of hay, 
per day, are needed to keep a glandered horse in working condition. 
Gentlemen formerly used to fee the post-boy to "push along." We well 
remember the quivering forms of gasping flesh which were unharnessed 
whenever the old coach changed horses. 

Omnibuses are very heavy ; the constant stoppages make the draught 
still more severe. The animals which appear in front of these vehicles 
are small in size, rarely sixteen hands high, but the best and strongest 
their proprietors can afford. A little breed is desirable, as a coarse 
horse would lack the courage to take the collar and to persevere. The 
age of these horses is generally three years when first bought in. Some 
animals have woi'ked through many seasons, but such instances are ex- 
ceptions. Numbers annually yield to the drag upon the constitution. 
These are sold for what they will fetch. But several, either from weakness 
or some other cause which our science yet lacks perception to discover, 
annually become glandered. 

Youth and high feeding, conjoined with excessive labor and damp 
lodging, will certainly produce glanders. Age, starvation, and ceaseless 
toil generally induce farcy. The glanders and the farcy, however, are 
one and the same disease, modified by the cause which originates them. 
Glanders is the more vigorous form of the disorder ; farcy is the slow 
type, fastening upon general debility. 

These disorders have been the scourges of horse-flesh. They still are 
the inheritance which man's willing slave gains by service to a harsh and 
cruel master. Men, to their fellow-men, sometimes confess, without any 
sense of shame, that they buy cheap horses to work them up. It is, in 
some cases, esteemed more economical to exhaust the life than to pur- 
chase and to maintain that number of animals which would be equal to 
the labor. This horrible system is in daily operation in a country 
professing Christianity ! 



J 



GLANDERS. 215 

Glanders is provoked by human depravity. Had people common 
feeling for the life over which they are given authority — would they only 
admit, in its largeness and its truth, that " the laborer is worthy of his 
hire" — the disease might, in one year, become a tradition. 

At present the affection exists as the dread of every horse proprietor. 
It is highly contagious — all owners of horses know this. The stable 
may be scrupulously clean, yet the poison may have been lodged there 
by the last inhabitant. It is not only contagious to horses, but it is 
equally dangerous to men. Three sad instances of this fact have come 
to the author's knowledge. Two respectable gentlemen, moving in good 
society, were each contaminated, and both pitiably perished of this terri- 
ble disease. They were no stable-helpers, moving and living among 
suspicious beasts, but individuals whose avocations did not oblige thera 
to mix with horses — gentlemen of professional standing, who were inoc- 
ulated they knew not how. Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, informed 
the writei", of a boy who once went from a shop to stand at the head of 
a pony the master of which wished to make a purchase. The animal, 
while the boy was so placed, cleared, its nostrils, and a portion of the 
ejected matter flew into the lad's eye. The handkerchief removed the 
soil, and the accident was soon forgotten. However, the poor youth 
was glandered, and became a patient in the University Hospital. 

Such facts sufficiently prove all men have an interest in opposing any 
conduct likely to generate so horrible a scourge. Man, as a community, 
is answerable for the comfort of every creature intrusted to his charge. 
He may refuse to accept the conditions of the trust, but he cannot escape 
the responsibility. In proof of the truth of this conclusion, glanders is 
now recognized as one of those incurable diseases, generated by neglect, 
to which the human being is liable, in every hospital throughout the 
kingdom. 

Why is the legislature behind the medical profession in the extent of 
its recognitions ? Any man may now, according to law, drive or ride a 
glandered animal through the crowded streets of any town in the three 
kingdoms. He may, without fear of punishment, endanger the lives of the 
unsuspecting wayfai'ers, whom it is the especial province of the Parlia- 
ment to protect. "Why should not the glandered stable be detected, and 
the animals, dangerously diseased, be slaughtered ? Why should any 
man be allowed to retain, and openly use as property, that which is per- 
ilous to society ; and wherefore should law protect him, when harboring 
pestilence for the sake of profit ? 

That the foregoing observations are correctly based, is proved by the 
pest becoming less common as the public have morally improved — only, 
why leave so immediate an evil to be cured by so slow a process ? Years 



2T6 GLANDERS. 

ago, an affected horse, led through the streets, was an almost hourly 
occurrence. Since that time we have improved, and such sights are no 
longer common. Therefore the morality here alluded to is not of limited 
meaning. It implies improvements in drainage, and all those innovations 
by which life has been made more secure. He is the truest benefactor 
of mankind who lessens the ills to which existence is exposed. 

Glanders is the phthisis of the horse. Phthisis is, in some countries, 
esteemed even more dangerously contagious than glanders and farcy are 
in England admitted to be. Man, however, employs a handkerchief; 
the plates off which he feeds are washed. The manger is never cleansed ; 
and the discharge soils the boards on which the corn reposes. 

The lungs of very many horses, however, which have perished of the 
pest, will exhibit numerous tubercles ; these, in the human subject, are 
considered conclusive evidence as to the existence of phthisis. 




THE LUNGS OP A HORSE WHICH HAD PERISHED FROM GLANDERS. 

(A portion of the left lung has been excised, to show the ravage of the disease.) 

By some practitioners glanders is esteemed a purely local disorder. 
In books, schools, and elsewhere, the running from the nose has been 
pointed out as the disease itself; and the situation of the affection is 
said to be the frontal sinuses — hence the dependence placed in various 
caustic injections forced up the nostrils. 

A very little reflection will, however, enable the reader to take a more 
extended view of the malady. When glanders exists, a staring coat 
generally declares the skin affected ; and the customary termination of 
the disorder — farcy and dropsy — proves more than the surface of the 
body to be implicated. The lungs — or, at all events, the air-passages — 
never escape. Loss of flesh and swelling of the glands demonstrate the 
absorbent system to be involved. Absence of spirit and inability to work, 
toward the close of the affection, are evidence the nervous system does 
not escape. The secretions are derived from the blood ; and the blood, 
it has been shown, by a silly experiment, is capable of generating the 
malady. Their pallid aspect, after death, convinces us the muscles were 
far from healthy. Of all parts, perhaps, the abdominal contents are least 
diseased, though the marked decay of appetite does not favor such an 
opinion. What disease, then, can be considered a constitutional disor- 




GLANDERS. 211 

der, if one which involves so many and such various structures is to be 
regarded as a striv3tly local affection ? 

A horse, full of corn, and in the prime of health, if unfortunately 
inoculated with the virus of glanders, generally has the disease iu its 
acutest form : the animal may be dead by the expiration of a week. 
Other quadrupeds, iu which the disorder is provoked by natui'al causes, 
may, on the contrary, exhibit glanders in the most chronic shape. If 
the exciting cause has a strong con- 
stitution to act upon — especially 
if the horse, soon after imbibing 
the poison, be removed to easier 
work or a more dry abode — the 
malady may exist for years iu a 
subtle, undeveloped form. A thin i 

T 1 1 • THB HEAD OF A HORSE WHICn HAD BEEN 

discharge only may run, irregu- slaughtered for glanders. 

larly, from one nostril. At times l- The lymphatic gland enlRvged, hard, and adher- 

•' ' eut nrmly to the interior of the jaw-bone. 

no fluid may appear, nor is the 

liquid ever copious. One of the kernels, or lymphatic glands, situated 
between the branches of the channel, may be more or less fixed. But, 
otherwise, the horse is active, full of fire, and exhibits nothing to excite 
suspicion. During all this time the creature may be endowed with a 
fatal power of communicating the disease. Horses, having received the 
taint from such a source, may die within the week, while the cause of 
the mortality eats well, works well, delights the master's eye by its 
thriving appearance, and in such a condition even may exist for years. 

In the early stage it is difficult to pronounce positively upon a case of 
glanders. Ulceration of the nasal membrane would be confirmation of 
the worst doubt ; but the ulceration may be situated so high up as to 
defy all our efforts to distinguish it. Yet running from the nose may 
be perceptible, and the gland may be fixed to the jaw. Both of these 
symptoms, although lawfully provoking our fears, are frequently attend- 
ant upon aggravated or upon prolonged colds. The only lawful test, 
in such cases, is the administration of three doses of solution of aloes, 
eight ounces to the dose — allowing three days to elapse between each. 
If the horse be glandered, before the last purgative has set the real 
nature of the malady will be apparent in the aggravation of the symp- 
toms. If glanders be not present, a little careful nursing will generally 
remove all effect of the medicine. 

The glanders is mostly ushered in by febrile disturbance. The appetite 
is bad, the coat stares, and the pulse is quickened. A mash or two, 
however, apparently sets all right, and the matter is forgotten. Soon 
afterward a slight discharge may issue from one nostril; but it is so very 



2t8 



GLANDERS. 



slight, it excites no alarm. One of the lymphatic glands, on the same 
side as the moist nostril, alters in character. It may remain loose and 
become morbidly sensitive. Usually, however, it grows adherent to the 
jaw, turns hard, insensitive, and, from being wholly imperceptible in the 
healthy animal, enlarges to about the size of half a chestnut. 




THE PRIMARY BISCHARGE OP GLANDERS. 
SIMPLY A SLIGHT WATERY DEFLUXION. 




THE SECONDARY DISCHARGE. A THICK AND COPIOUS 
BUT STILL TRANSPARENT EXCRETION, CONTAINING 
PIECES AND THREADS OF MUCUS. 




THE THIRD, OR SUP- 
PURATIVE STAGE 
OF GLANDERS. 



At a later period the discharge, retaining its clear appearance, becomes 

more consistent, and, to a slight degree, the hairs and parts over which 

it flows are incrusted. It subsequently adheres to the margin of the 

nostril, and then, in the transparent, albuminous fluid 

may be seen opaque threads of white mucus. This 

marks the second stage. 

The next change takes place more rapidly. The trans- 
parent fluid entirely disappears, and in its place is seen a 
full stream of unwholesome pus. At this time there is 
some danger of glanders being mistaken for nasal gleet. 
A little attention will, however, rescue any person from 
so imminent a peril. The smell of glanders is peculiar. 
It is less pungent but more unwholesome, suggesting a more deep- 
seated source, than characterizes the disease with which it has been con- 
founded. The ejection of glanders, moreover, is obviously impure; 
whereas that of nasal gleet generally flows forth in a 
fetid stream of thick and creamy matter. 

When the third stage is witnessed, the disease is 
rapidly hurrying to its termination. The membrane of 
the nose changes to a dull, leaden color. The margins 
of the nostrils become dropsical, and every breath is 
di'awn with difficulty. The defluxion exhibits discolora- 
tion. Scabs, masses of bone or pieces of membrane, 
mingled with patches of blood, next make their appear- 
ance ; and the internal parts are evidently being broken 
up by the violence of the disorder. 

The above description of filthy facts is, probably, sufficiently explicit; 
but to render the foregoing more clear, the following diagram is ap- 
pended. The reader will perceive there are two kinds of tubercles — 




THE FOURTH, OR LAST 
STAGE OF GLANDtRS. 



GLANDERS. 



2-79 



the large and the small. One is no bigger than a grain of sand ; the 
other is as large as half a pea. The disease which follows both is the 
same, — is equally contagious and is equally fatal. It will also be re- 
marked, the membrane appears swollen and partially discolored in the 
case of glanders. It loses its bright, fleshy, or healthy hue; and it 
assumes a dull, heavy, and dropsical aspect. It will likewise be 
observed that comparatively few blood-vessels are ramifying upon the 
affected membrane, which sign, in a well-marked case, is often so obvious 
as to become a leading indication of the disorder. 




THS SEPTUM NASI OP AN OLD HORSE, SHOWING THE DIFFEREXT KINDS AND STAGES OF GLANDERS. 

1. A large tubercle. 

2. The same iii the ulcerative stage, pale in the center and dark at the edges. 

3. The same ulcers after they have united, sloughed in one another, or become confluent. 

4. The roughness which announces granular tul)ercles to be Ijeneath the skin. 

5. The slightly elevated condition of the membrane when granular tubercles appear. 

6. Granular tubercles in the vesicular stage. 

7. Uriinular tubercles in the ulcerative stage. 

8. Granular tubercles after they have ulcerated and assumed the confluent form. 

It is usual for low dealers, when a tubercle in the vesicular stage is 
detected, to assert that it is only a piece of mucus. To test such asser- 
tion, wrap a portion of tow, or anything soft, round a small stick, and 
wipe the place. If it be mucus, it will be removed ; but if it remains, 
the reader may rest assured as to its nature. When an ulcer is seen, 
the dishonest salesman will laugh, and ask if that is all the inspector 




THE TURBINATED BONES OF A TOCNO HORSE WHICH WAS FREE FROM GLANDERS, SHOWING THOSS APPEAR- 
ANCES A GLANDERED NOSTRIL IS OFTEN ASSERTED TO EXHIBIT. 

1. A punctured wound, the skin removed, but darkest toward the center. 

2. A lacerated wound, with a flap of pendant membrane. 

3. A scratch — long and rough — having the edges slightly raised. 



can discover — declaring the horse recently hurt itself against a nail. 
The interior of the nostril is a very sheltered part, and, therefore, very 
unlikely to be wounded. Yet so that the reader may be prepared to 



280 GLANDERS, 

recognize such reality, in spite of the hard swearing and loud jocularity 
which is designed to confuse him, a diagram of a portion of the nostrils, 
covered with healthy membrane and showing the veins natural to the 
part, also displaying the shapes and appearances of wounds — when they 
occur — is inserted. 

The reader has been told what constitutes glanders. He has been 
instructed how to recognize its more marked indications. There, how- 
ever, remains to teach him the manner in which a suspected horse should 
be handled or examined. 

The animal's head should be turned toward the strongest light obtain- 
able ; if toward the blaze of the noonday sun, so much the better. The 
examiner should then place himself by the side of the creature's head, 
not in front, but in a situation where, though the animal should snort, 
he is in no danger of the ejected matter falling upon him. With one 
hand the upper and outer rim of the nostril should be raised ; when, 
grasping this part between the finger and thumb, no fear need be enter- 
tained. The case vpould be something more than suspicious, were any 
risk of contamination incurred. 

The wing of the nostril being raised, the examiner must note the 
appearances exposed ; this he will best do by knowing where to look 
and what to expect. His eye has nothing to do 
with the skin nor with the marks that appear 
upon it. The opening of the lachrymal duct often 
challenges observation by being well defined and 
particularly conspicuous; but that natural devel- 
opment does not concern him ; to that no atten- 
tion must be given. The inspection must be 
concentrated upon the membrane more internally 
situated than the skin seen at the commencement 
of the nostrils. The skin, moreover, suddenly 
ceases, and is obviously defined by a well-marked 

1. Termination of the lach- . , . , „ t nn ^l • t 

rymai duct— a natural devei- mai'gin ; thcrc IS, thcreiore, uo diiuculty in dis- 

"T'a discolored membrane, tiuguishiug thc membrane by its fleshy and moist- 
disfigured by ulcerative , . n i -^ -^ j_' -rr 

puuhes. ened aspect, as well as by its situation. It, on 

this membrane, any irregular or ragged patches 
are conspicuous, if these patches are darker toward their edges than in 
their centers, and if they, nevertheless, seem shallow, pallid, moist, and 
sore, the animal may be rejected as glandered. Should any part of the 
membrane — after being wiped as before directed — seem rough or have 
evidently beneath its surface certain round or oval-shaped bodies, the 
horse assuredly is glandered. The membrane may present a worm-eaten 
appearance, or be simply of a discolored and heavy hue. In the first 




THE PROOF OF GLANDERS. 



GLANDERS. 281 

case, the animal ought to be condemned ; in the second, it is open to 
more than suspicion. 

No animal should be permitted to slowly perish of glanders. The 
disease, as it proceeds, affects the fauces, pharynx, and larynx; all 
become ulcerated. Not a particle of food can be swallowed ; not a 
drop of saliva can be deglutated ; not a breath of air can be inspired, 
without the severest torture being experienced. As the disease pro- 
ceeds, the obstruction offered to the breathing grows more and more 
painful. Farcy breaks forth, and, as a consequence, superficial dropsy is 
added to the other torments. The edges of the nostrils enlarge ; the 
membrane lining the cavities bags out, while the fauces and larynx con- 
tract : the discharge becomes more copious and the breathing is impeded. 
Thus the difficulty of respiration is increased, just as the condition of the 
lungs renders the necessity of pure air the more imperative. Ultimately, 
however, laborious breathing induces congestion of the brain, and the 
wretched sufferer falls insensible — it is hoped — to die of actual suf- 
focation. 

Such is a brief description of glanders, to cure which every now and 
then pretenders arise. No medicine, however, can restore the parts 
which disease has disorganized. There is no cure for glanders, which is 
essentially an ulcerative disorder. Every horse being thus contaminated 
should be at once destroyed: it is now lawful to do this when animals 
are taken in Smithfield market; but what is just in one place is surely 
not unjust in another. Moral rectitude resides on no particular spot. 
The blackguards who deal in contagion, driven from the public market, 
now reap a rich harvest by private sales. A chronically-glandered horse 
is an actual property to these rogues. It is sold. No sooner is the 
money paid and the vendor out of the way, than an accomplice appears 
and points out the nature of the bargain. The unfortunate purchaser 
seeks advice, and finds his worst fears confirmed. The accomplice offers 
to buy the horse at a knacker's price. It is obtained ; and again it is 
advertised as "a favorite horse, the property of a gentleman deceased." 

Any person ought by law to be empowered to give any man, driving 
or riding a glandered horse, into custody. There should be appointed 
certain qualified practitioners who should have authority to enter any 
stable at any time. Those abominations, where numbers of glandered 
horses are now stived together, whence they only are taken out to draw 
public vehicles by night, would then soon cease to exist. Were glan- 
dered horses by law condemned, men, from mercenary motives, would 
soon cease buying cheap life for the purpose of working disease to utter 
exhaustion. Such proprietors, were glanders declared just cause for 
slaughtering any horse wherever found, would soon discover their cheap 



282 FARCY. 

purchases to be dear bargains. It is terrible now to witness animals, in 
almost the last stage of a most debilitating malady, goaded through the 
public streets with cruel loads behind them. It is horrible, when we 
reflect that every citizen in a large town is, by the avarice of unscrupu- 
lous people, exposed to a most loathsome disease, and to a most tortur- 
ing death. 

FARCY. 

When the horse, which has been the pampered favorite in its youth, 
grows old, it generally becomes the half-starved and over-worked drudge 
of some equally half-starved proprietor. In the fullness of its pride 
and the freshness of its strength, it had to canter under the airy burden 
of my lady's figure. When the joints are stiff — when accident, disease, 
and sores, have rendered every movement painful ; and when its energy 
is poorly fed upon the rankest provender — then the wretched animal is, 




THE OLD FAVORITE AND THE NEW PET. 



by the whip of a thoughtless hireling, forced to toil between the shafts 
of some creaking cart. It is sad to watch the vehicles on a London 
road, and speculate upon what has been the past fortune and will be the 
future fate of the animals which propel them ! 

Farcy is peculiarly the lot of the poor man's horse. It is the conse- 
quence of utter exhaustion. It is the horrid friend — the last and dread- 
ful rescuer of the thoroughly wretched. No one cause will produce it. 
To generate farcy, there must be a congregation of evils : the constitu- 
tion must be weakly ; the grooming must be neglected ; the food must 
be stinted ; the bed soiled ; the dwelling small ; the drainage bad ; the 
master unfeeling, and the work excessive. All of these things, or so 
many of them as nature can endure, must exist before farcy can be 
generated. 




FARCY. 283 

It is true the disease can be communicated by inoculation. But that 
source of farcy is of very small importance. Not one case in a thousand 
thus originates. Farcy is essentially a skin disease. It commences with 
specific inflammation of the superficial absorbents. 
This inflammation leads to suppuration and to ul- 
ceration. Abscesses first appear. They may come 
on any part of the body. They seem to be, in the 
primary instance, lumps or hard enlargements. 
Something of the annexed form is first observed. 
There may be one of these, or there may be many. 
Ultimately they burst or are opened. Apparently 
healthy matter then issues from the interior. But 
the first discharge being released, the wound does a farcy bud. 

not heal. The edges grow rough, the center of 
the sore becomes pale, and moistened by a thin, semi-transparent fluid. 
Then, if the neighborhood of the sore be felt, cords, more or less thin, 
will be discovered running from it toward some other lumps on the 
body. 

Such is the distinguishing sign by which to recognize farcy. Lumps 
appear, which prove to be abscesses. They, after discharging, do not 
heal ; they become ulcers. From them run certain cords, which are the 
swollen lymphatic or absorbents. Till the enlargement of the absorbents 
is discerned, a man, from the other signs, may suspect, but he cannot 
pronounce with certainty, the disease to be farcy. 

If a recent case of farcy be slaughtered and dissected, the affection 
appears to go no deeper than the skin. The cellular tissue will exhibit 
indications of dropsy, which invariably is present. The muscles will be 
pallid and flabby, suggesting bodily debility ; but, to most observers, 
such signs will be all that is discernible. 

Is farcy, then, strictly, a local disorder ? Can such be asserted of a 
malady which appears to be so constitutional in its origin ? Is there 
nothing continuous with the skin ? Yes, there is. Intimately connected 
with the outward covering of the body, imperceptibly blending with it, 
and capable, after exposure, of assuming its appearance, is the mucous 
membrane. Mucous membrane lines the interior of the body, and is 
very abundantly supplied with absorbents. The French, who are far 
more minute observers and more accomplished dissectors than the gen- 
erality of English surgeons, have, in cases of farcy, detected signs which 
assure us the disease is not strictly an external affection. It has an 
internal and a deep-seated origin, as is evidenced by the discovery of a 
few tubercles upon the mucous membrane of the interior. 

The course of the disease would likewise teach us to arrive at this 



284 



FARCY. 



conclusion. The appetite often fails ; sometimes it becomes voracious. 
The matter is, by pressure, to be squeezed through the skin. The thirst 
becomes torturing ; the horse will cry for water. All it drinks, however, 
passes quickly through the body, and the desire for fluid cannot be satis- 
fied. At last — as though to prove the correctness of our opinion con- 
cerning the constitutional nature of farcy — glanders breaks forth. 

Glanders and farcy seem to be the same disease, modified by certain 
circumstances to which the animal is exposed. Thus a horse, inoculated 
with the matter of glanders, may become farcied ; or an animal, infected 
with the taint of farcy, may exhibit glanders. These results, together 
with the fact of a glandered horse displaying farcy prior to death, and 
of a farcied animal exhibiting glanders previous to decease, are pretty 
conclusive evidence. 

Farcy is of two kinds, the large and the small. The large may appear 
as one or more abscesses. Generally it is dis- 
posed to select, in the first instance, those places 
where the skin is thin and the hair all but ab- 
sent. It breaks, and becomes shallow ulcers, 
which, however, may heal upon the application 
of any escharotic. The abscesses are not, in 
every instance, of one absolute figure. They 
vary in such respect, and have a tendency, if 
neglected, to generate large ulcers, from which 
spring unsightly bunches of fungoid granulations. 
The smaller description of this disorder has 
no preference for any particular locality. It 
appears, like surfeit, in small lumps all over the 
body. These lumps, from their size and uni- 
formity, have been likened to buttons — hence 
the term "button farcy." Cords soon connect 
them ; they maturate and burst, like the larger sort. The " button 

farcy," however, leaves a deeper and a more 
painful ulcer. It yields less readily to 
treatment, and seems to exhibit itself be- 
fore the body is utterly exhausted. 

How very numerous the absorbents of 
the skin are, may be conjectured from the 
subjoined engraving of a prepared speci- 
men — and not a very successful one either 
— of a piece of farcied skin, when deprived 
A PORTION OF SKIN, TAKEN FROM A of hair. Id thls casc, thc animal suffered 

FARCIED HORSE, INJECTED WITH 1 j.1 1 ^ C i? il 

MEBonRY. under the large or common form of the 




FARCY ON THE INSIDE OF THE 
horse's THIGH, WHERE THE SKIN 
18 THIN AND THE HAIR ALMOST 
ABSENT. 




FARCY. 



285 



disease. In the button variety, the tumors would only be smaller, of a 
more even size, and far more numerous. 

Farcy is, by the generality of practitioners, regarded as a more tract- 
able disease than glanders. Certainly the course of the disorder is 
arrested much easier ; but, to cure the malady, there is a constitution 
to renovate and a virus to destroy. Is it in the power of medicine to 
restore the health and strength, which have been underfed, sapped by a 
foul atmosphere, and exhausted by overwork ? Tonics may prop up or 
stimulate for a time ; but the drunkard and the opium-eater, among 
human beings, can inform us that the potency of the best-selected and 
the choicest drugs, most judiciously prescribed and carefully prepared, is 
indeed very limited. What, then, can be hoped for in an animal whose 
treatment is generally an affair of pounds, shillings, and pence ? Sul- 
phate of copper or of iron, oak-bark, Cayenne pepper, and cantharides, 
probably, are the chief medicines the practitioner will give. With such 
the horse may be patched up ; it may even return to work. But at what 
a risk ! It carries about the seeds of a disorder contagious to the human 
species, and in man even more terrible than in the quadruped. Is it 
lawful, is it right, to save an avaricious master the chance of a few shil- 
lings, and to incur the risk of poisoning an innocent person ? The 
author thinks not. Therefore he will give no directions how to arrest 
the progress of farcy. The horse, once contaminated, is, indeed, very 
rarely or never cured. The animal, after the veterinary surgeon has 
shaken hands with the proprietor and departed, too often bears about 
an enlarged limb, which impedes its utility, and, at any period, may 
break forth again with more than the virulence of the original affection. 




A qentieman's servant out of place. 



CHAPTER XII. 

LIMBS — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



OSSEOUS DEPOSITS— SPAVIN. 

"One horse could wear out two pairs of legs," is an old jockey's 
phrase. Most men, when purchasing a dumb slave, pay great attention 
to the lower extremities. If an animal be used up or has performed 
hard work, the indications are sure to be found on those parts; but 
what a comment does the language and the act referred to pass upon 
the conduct of those masters, the history of whose treatment, or rather 




A PARK NAQ WITH BONE SPAVIN LED OUT OP THE STABLE. 

whose abuse of a living creature, is thus sought for and often found 
upon a breathing frame I 

Before the strength has departed, or the legitimate number of years 
are exhausted, cruelty deprives a most obedient drudge of its power to 
serve. The history of almost every horse in this kingdom is a struggle 
to exist against human endeavors to deprive it of utility. Nature, when 
she made the animal, formed a ci-eature hardly second to her master-piece 
in anatomical perfection ; the legs are strong, but, in his impatience and 
in his blind obedience to the dictates of fashion, man will put them to 
(286) 



SPAVIN. 287 

their fullest use before their structure is confirmed. Racers go into 
training when one year old. Carriage horses, omnibus machiners, cart 
horses, nags, roadsters, may-birds, and park hacks generally come into 
work about the third year. The animal, however, does not cut all its 
teeth till the completion of its fifth birthday. It requires to look upon 
eight seasons before its adult period is entered upon; and yet at the 
third year, or before that period, it is put to such work as only a horse 
can or does perform. 

When the horse was designed to be only matured, the frivolity of 
mankind pronounces the creature to be aged. The life is, indeed, gener- 
ally worthless before the eighth year is entered upon. The young flesh, 
bones, and sinews, long before that time arrives, are made the seats of 
poignant diseases. Work, not in the first instance laborious, but sud- 
den and energetic beyond what the frame of the young horse can endure, 
casts it out of the gentleman's stable. Once removed from that place, 
its descent is rapid. From the carriage to the cab is a leap often cleared 
in equine history ; but every change adds misery to its lot. It fares 
worse, lodges worse, and works harder with every new proprietor, till 
at length, as its years and wretchedness accumulate, Nature interposes 
and takes the sufferer to herself. 

At the head of this article stands an engraving of the mildest form 
of reward which docility reaps by service unto cruelty. When will this 
land, which so loudly boasts its Christianity, apply in its fullness and its 
strength the sacred maxim — "Do unto others as you would others should 
do unto you "? When will churchmen teach that the religion which does 
not enlarge the heart toward every breathing life upon the earth, is un- 
worthy of the Christian title ? Men who would rage to hear their faith 
called in question, nevei'theless feel no shame when they urge the young 
steed to that act which probably will cripple the animal for the short 
remainder of its life. 

Spavin, splint, or ring-bone are no more the legitimate consequences 
of equine existence, than nodes and anchylosis are the natural inherit- 
ances of human beings; yet what would the world look like, if men 
had their motions impeded and their joints firmly locked by bony 
deposits in anything like the proportion which such misfortunes are 
witnessed in the inferior life ? The most useful, the most trusting, and 
the most joyous of animals is the one toward which man acts as though 
his study was to abuse the authority intrusted to him. Its utility lies 
in its legs; its play also is a canter; but before its body is set, its limbs 
are disabled. Kindness can subdue the creature, which, however, is 
never taken out of its prison without the whip ; it is treated as a thing 
without feeling: but its body is not more impressible to brutality than 



288 



SPAVIN. 



its feelings are sensitive to gentleness. The one is often injured, and 
the others are frequently vitiated by the master it too literally obeys. 

Spavin and splint both are the change of ligamentous structure into 
bone : spavin occurs at the inner and lower part of the hock ; splint 
also may be sometimes found at the same part of the knee. The name 
splint is likewise applied to any bony enlargement upon 
the shins or below the hocks and the knees. 

Splints in the fore leg are mostly seen on the inner side. 
On the hind limb, however, such growths principally 
favor the outer side. The advent of splint, when near 
the knee, is generally accounted for by saying the inner 
side of the joint lies more under the center of gravity, 
BONE sPAvix. ^^^ therefore, is the more exposed to injury. Such an 

A BweUing or bony ' '■ j j 

tumor, situated iutcrprctation, however, leaves the preference for the outer 

upon the lower i ' ' i 

and inner part of locality — whcu splints are witnessed on the hind leg — 

the hock-joint. .; i o 

unexplained. Perhaps the reader will — after having con- 
templated the two following engravings, and subsequent to having 
observed that the artery of the hinder limb crosses the inferior part of 
the hock, to take its course down the outer side of the leg, while in 
the fore extremity the vessel continues along the inner side of the shin- 






THE inside. OF the fore leg, showing thb 

VESSELS PROPER TO THAT PART OP THE 
LIMB GENERALLY AFFECTED BT OSSEOUS 
DEPOSITS. 



THE outside OP THE HIND LEG, DISPLATINO 
THE VESSELS NATURAL TO THAT PART OF 
THE LIMB WHICH IS COMMONLT THE SEAT 
OP OSSEOnS DEPOSITS. 



bone — conclude with the author that, in splint, the distribution of the 
blood is more to be regarded than the weight, which, originally conveyed 
through a ball-and-socket joint, can hardly afterward affect one part to 
the release of the rest. 

Having explained the peculiarity attending some bony tumors on the 



SPAVIN. 



289 



hind extremity, it now becomes our duty to explain what actually con- 
stitutes a spavin. Any bony growth or bony enlargement, however 
small, which is to be seen or felt upon the inner side of the hock, is a 
"spavin." But of spavins there are three kinds. The low sort, or the 
"Jack" of the horse-dealer's phraseology. This answers to the splint 
of the fore leg, and originates in the top of the splint bone. 





A 3HI>'-B0!fE HAVING A\ 0SSE0T7S DEPOSIT UPON 
ITS HEAD AND ON THE INNER SIDE, WHICH 
MIGHT BE A SPLINT OR A SPAVIN, AS IT OC- 
CURRED UPON THE FJRE OR HIND LEG. 



THE INNER SIDE OP THE HOCK AF- 
FLICTED WITH HIGH OR INCCE- 
ABLE SPAVIN. 



The bony enlargement, should it be located comparatively high upon 
the joint, often produces acute and incurable lameness. When low 
down, the granules of bone have little to interfere with. Being placed 
higher up, the tendons have to play over the osseous deposit ; and, when 
that happens, the cure is hopeless. 

The above form of disease, however, does not ensue upon every case 
of spavin. Many good racers, and most seasoned hunters, have spavins, 
which do not in any way detract from their speed, however much these 
growths may interfere with their action. 

Bony spavin does, when the quadruped starts, sensibly deteriorate that 





THE NATURAL POSITION OF THE HEALTHY FOOT 
WHEN RAISED FROM THE EARTH DURING AN 

EAST TROT. 



THE FOOT, INCAPABLE OP BEING FREELt 
RAISED FROM THE GROUND, BT A HORSE 
WHICH IS BADLY SPAVINED. 



grace of motion which should characterize the action of the perfect 
horse. During the trot, the leg should be lifted clear of the earth, 

19 




290 SPAVIN. 

while, by an involuntary movement within the hock-joint, the hoof is in- 
clined outward. This peculiarity is exhibited in the engraving on page 289, 
which supposes the spectator to be standing by the side of the animals. 
Exostosis, formed on any part, locks together the bones which the 
deposit may involve, or it unites the several distinct parts into one 
osseous mass. By the bones of the hock beiug thus joined, all movement 
of the shin is effectually prevented ; the foot of a spavined horse is, to 
a spectator who is laterally situated, always presented in a side view. 
Moreover, when severe spavin is present, the entire flexion of the lower 
portion of the limb is rendered impossible. 

The toes being moved along, instead of being lifted from the ground, 
occasions the hoof and shoe to suffer wear. The hoof 
generally presents a toe blunted by perpetual friction ; 
while the shoe of a spavined horse is, in front, worn to 
a state of positive sharpness. These indications of dis- 
ease should always be sought for, and, when present, 
they are so obvious as hardly to be mistaken. 

Another test for spavin consists in observation made 

THE FOOT OF A SP W- 

iNED LIMB, sHowiNQ upou the mauucr of going. A horse thus affected comes 
TOE OF THE HOOF AND out of tlic Stable always stiff, and sometimes lame. 

shoe; BOTH ARE CON- i-l • l • il 1 T ± n, , ^ 

SEQUENT UPON DRAG- Excrcisc, by warming the body, seems to soften the 

OING THE MEMBER j. i i !• j.1 T I j.1 > 1 l • i 

cpoN THE GROUND. stubbomuess 01 the disease ; and the same animal, which 
left the stable in a crippled condition, may return to it 
in a state which, to the generality of gentlemen, would represent sound- 
ness. So well are dealers acquainted with this fact, that it is a custom 
with these folks for a spavined horse to be warmed before it is shown to 
a probable purchaser. No person, however, should hazard an opinion 
on any quadruped which is not perfectly cool, especially when there is a 
motive to be suspected of the slightest desire for a favorable judgment. 
The horse which, after exercise, should trot past with no obvious sign 
of spavin, having stood for an hour in the stable, would come forth a 
decided cripple, or, at all events,, with such faulty action that a novice 
would immediately detect something wrong about the legs. This 
peculiarity is illustrated by the engraving which heads the present 
chapter. 

Should the dealer refuse to exhibit the animal when cool, such refusal 
would be convincing evidence as to the condition of the horse. The 
sale should, under such circumstances, be at once repudiated. 

However, when judging of disease, it is always well to divest the mind 
of every kind of prejudice. Animals of a certain kind of conformation 
are said to be disposed, or to be more than ordinarily subject, to spavin. 
Creatures of the foregoing sort show what are denominated sickle-hocks 



SPAVIN. 



291 




A SICKLE-HOCKED OR COW-HOCKED HOESE. 



or cow-hocks. A sickle-hock is not a diseased joint, but it is one 

which the majority of horsemen have stigmatized as very liable to 

become diseased. Weakness, it 

it is only natural to imagine, such 

a malformation indicates ; but, 

so far as the author's experience 

goes, creatures thus formed often 

continue sound when limbs of 

model shape give way. 

It is now our duty to inform the 
reader how to examine a horse for 
spavin. In this operation there 
are four points of view to be taken 
— behind the animal, though al- 
ways at a safe distance from the 
heels ; in the front, but not close 
to the horse, yet so near that the 
examiner must bend to view the 
hocks between the fore legs; and 

from both the sides. In all these positions, it is prudent now to elongate 
the distance and now to approach nearer; then to move the head about, 
and occasionally to step to the right or to the left. In short, it is advisable 
to get as many different points of sight as possible ; for in one, and only 
in one, may a spavin be detected on the hock, which, seen from any other 
spot, shall look pea'fectly clean. At the same time, from every point 
care should be taken to compare one hock with the other; if the slightest 
difference in point of size can be detected, it is fair to suppose one is 
enlarged by the commencement of disease. Any indication of this sort 
is always to be sought for. The disease may have just begun, but it is 
impossible to say where it may stop. The spavin may be very small ; 
yet who can assert its growth is perfected ? In the examination for 
spavin, however, allowance should be made for the age of the horse. 
Spavins, in young horses, may be regarded with alarm ; in old animals, 
they generally are perfected, and, however large they may be, probably 
they will grow no bigger — on the contrary, as the years increase, they 
are usually diminished, being absorbed ; but the bones, once locked 
together, are never subsequently unloosed, although all the swelling 
should entirely disappear. 

The examination having been up to this point properly performed, 
there is yet another test to be adopted before the animal is trotted forth; 
here a well-trained and attentive groom is of every value — one who will 
keep on the same side as you may be upon, and who will follow your 



292 



SPAVIN. 



footsteps whenever you change from right to left. The duty of this 
groom is to hold up the front leg ; the more stress is placed upon his 
attention, because no horse can kick with the hind foot of that side upon 





THE POINTS OF VIEW WHENCE TO LOOK FOR SPAVIN IN A nORSU. 



which one fore leg is off the ground. The attempt would deprive the 
body of all lateral support, and a fall would ensue; whereas many quad- 
rupeds can, for a short time, balance themselves upon two legs, each 
being on opposite sides of the body : therefore the examiner, probably 
engrossed in his occupation, would be in considerable danger, should the 
groom forget to follow his movements. 

Most horses are averse to having the hocks fingered ; such liberties 
are apt to call up vehement indignation ; it is necessary, therefore, to 
guard him who undertakes to inspect them. This the groom does most 
effectually; but the examiner should also take some caution — he should 
stand as close to the foot of the horse as may be convenient. Thus, 
should the animal kick out, he may escape, or, at most, be very rudely 
pushed on one side. The horse's kick is only severe after the heels have 
reached some distance, or have obtained power by propulsion ; for that 
reason is the advice given to stand as near the hind foot as may be 
convenient. 

Being in this situation, one hand is laid upon the top of the hock, and 

the entire weight of the body is brought to 
bear upon that part. The object is three- 
fold — to obtain, by this means, the earliest 
intimation of any design on the part of the 
animal to use the limb ; to impede in some 
measure the extension of the leg ; and to 
gain a point of rest on which to lean, while 
the head is bent forward to inspect, the free 
hand being employed to feel the part ap- 
propriate to spavin. Afterward comes the 
trot, the peculiarities to be detected in which 
have been anticipated. 

Now we encounter the important ques- 
tion, What can be done for a spavined horse ? If the animal be not 




THE MANNER IN WHICH TO FEEL FOR A 
SPAVIN. 



SPAVIN. 293 

lame, let it alone. However large, however unsightly the deposit may 
be, do not run the chance of exciting a new action in a part where 
disease exists in a quiescent form. 

The regular treatment is to purge, give diuretics, bleed, blister, rowel, 
seton, periostoteomy, neurotomy, fire, and punch. The bleeding may be 
great or small, local or general ; the blister, mild or severe, applied over 
half the joint at a time, or rubbed in after the limb has been scored by 
the iron. Rowels and setons may also be simple, or they may be smeared 
with irritants, which are made of diiferent strengths. Periostoteomy 
may be single, or may be made compound by the addition of a seton 
and a blister. Neurotomy is very unsatisfactory, and very often a most 
tedious affair when employed to cure spavin. The fire may be down to 
the true skin ; it may be through the skin, and on to the tumor ; or it 
may be inflicted by means of a blunt-pointed instrument, which, when 
heated, burns its way into the bone itself. The punch also admits of 
variety ; it may be with or without a blister ; it may be holes made in a 
living body, which holes are filled with a corroding paste. Or the oper- 
ation may consist of the exposure of the bone, and cutting off the offend- 
ing portion with a saw, or knocking away part of a breathing frame 
with a chisel and a mallet. 

All these tortures have for centuries been inflicted ; they have been 
practiced upon thousands of animals, only for men, at this day, to doubt 
whether the cruelty has been attended with the slightest service. Flesh, 
as capable of feeling as our own, has been cut, irritated, burnt, and 
punched for hundreds of years ; and now, at the twelfth hour, such 
operations are not discarded, but their eflicacy is mildly questioned. 

Reader, if you have a horse which is lame from spavin, and your cal- 
culations tell you it will not pay to nurse the cripple, have it slaughtered. 
Do not consent to have it tortured for a chance ; do not sell it to the 
certainty of a terrible old age and of immediate torment. 

The cure for spavin is good food and rest — perfect rest : such 
rest or stagnation as a healthy horse submits to in the stable. This, 
enjoined for months, with the occasional application of a mild blister, 
with the best of food, to enable nature to rectify man's abuse, will do 
more good, cost no more money, and occupy no more time than the 
devilries usually adopted, and very often adopted without success. As 
an additional motive on the side of humanity, it may be stated that the 
horse suffers much more when disease is located in the hind than when 
it is exhibited upon the fore leg. The ravages which, in the first case, 
would endanger the life, in the last would be borne with comparative 
tranquillity. The posterior parts of the animal seem to be endowed 
with exquisite sensibility ; yet, in spite of this, the so-called cure for 



294 SPLINT; 

spavin, and the boasted treatment for ages, only consists in torturing the 
hocks of the animal. 

While inflammation exists, apply poultices, and well rub the part with 
a mixture of belladonna and of opium — one ounce of each drug rubbed 
down with one ounce of water. Or place opium and camphor on the 
poultices ; or rub the enlargement with equal parts of chloroform and 
camphorated oil. The pain having subsided and the heat being ban- 
ished, apply, with friction, some of the following ointment. It may 
reduce the disease by provoking absorption ; at all events, it will check 
all further growth by rendering further deposit almost an impossibility. 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Simple ointment Eight ounces. 

Mix. 

SPLINT. 

The horse, could it only speak, would have sufficient cause to over- 
whelm man with its injuries. It is to be hoped that He who heeds not 
language, but reads the heart, will not peruse the horror written on that 
of the most contented and sweetest-dispositioned of man's many slaves. 
It is true, colts have spavin and splints. Creatures, whose days of bit- 
terness are as yet to come, exhibit exostoses ; but these blemishes are 
the sad inheritances of the cruel service exacted by thoughtless masters 
from the progenitors of the deformed. Nature gave the horse a fibro- 
cartilaginous or elastic union to particular bones, so that all its motions 
might be bounding and graceful. The animal, thus formed, was pre- 
sented to man ; but the gift was not prized by him to whom it was given. 
The authority possessed was abused. The capability of the horse was 
only measured by what it was able, at the risk of its life, to perform. 
The most humane of modern proprietors is an ignorant tyrant to his 
graceful bond-servant. The most meek of owners likes his horse to 
possess high action. The consequence is, the leg, lifted from the ground 
to the highest- possible point, is forcibly driven again to the earth. This 
pace is imposed upon a creature so docile, it only seeks to learn that 
which pleases its master, and, in the entirety of its confidence, never 
mistrusts its instructor. The lesson is learned. The animal soon 
becomes proud to exhibit its acquirement. High action, however — 
especially that kind of action the horse is taught to exemplify — soon 
deranges the system. It breeds inflammation in the fibro-cartilaginous 
tissues, upon which its chief strain is felt. The union between the splint 
bones and the cannon, or between the shin-bone and the accessories, one 
on either side, speedily becomes converted into osseous matter. 

However, man cannot say to nature, " Thus far shalt thou go, and no 



SPLINT. 



295 




farther," otherwise the alteration of structure, if unseen, might distress 
the horse, but would little affect the owner. A diseased action, once 
started up, is apt to involve other parts than those in which it originated. 
Thus, a splint is strictly an exostosis or bony tumor on the inner and 
lower part of the knee-joint; but there are found to be others which this 
definition will not embrace. Here, for instance, are the ordinary kinds 
of splint to be seen, more or less, in every animal subject to man's usage. 

Number 1 is unsightly. Moreover, it gives an unpleasant jar to 
the rider of the poor hoi'se thus deformed ; and few men, when they 
state this fact, ever think of what sensation that which jars 
the equestrian must occasion to the steed. It will produce 
lameness at first; but, this surmounted and the tumor fully 
formed, it causes no inconvenience beyond a loss of elasti- 
city whea in motion ; and because it provokes no lameness, 
man says it is unattended by feeling. 

Figure 2 is a splint on the side of the leg. It also is 
unsightly, and produces a disagreeable sensation to the 
person in the saddle. Moreover, it is exposed to accidents. 
If the horse has high and close action, the tumor may be 
struck when the foot is being raised. Such a possibility is 
not altogether free from danger. The horse, having grazed 
the swelling, will often fall down as though it were shot. 
That circumstance warrants the supposition that these 
growths are not quite so devoid of sensibility as most 
horse owners are pleased to assert they are. 

The slight enlargement, opposite which stands figure 
3, denotes a growth of small size. It may be of no 
great consequence, if it appear on a vacant part of the bone, or on 
a place over which no tendon passes ; but it is of serious import, if 
situated beneath a tendon, as then it causes incurable lameness. 

Man having provoked these blemishes, Nature generally strives to 
remove the effects of his stupidity. She will smooth the top of the 
tumor by the interposition of cartilage and of ligament, that the skin 
may not be irritated when passing over these enlargements. She will 
also develop a false bursa on the top of each, thereby causing the integ- 
ument to move with an approach to ease. 

Yet there are other sorts of splints which often are very serious 
affairs. That the reader may comprehend these, let him attend to the 
next engraving. 

1 — Represents a splint which has involved the bones of the knee, and 
which has left the horse only the joint formed by the lower end of the 
radius to progress with. This is a sad business. The action is injured 



TUB DIFFERENT 
KINDS OF SPLINT. 

1. A high 
splint, near the 
knee. 

2. AlowspUnt, 
far from the 
knee. 

3. A small 
liony growth on 
the front of the 
leK.whichisalso 
called a splint. 



296 



SPLINT. 




SPLINTS OF A SERIOUS KIN'D. 



for life ; and death, or a cart, is the lot of the wretched animal so 

diseased. 

2 — Shows fine points of bone, so placed that they would impinge upon 
the suspensory ligament, if not upon the flexor 
tendons. Lameness, in its acutest form, would 
thereby be caused wherever the limb was bent. 
The lameness, probably, would last till death, as 
splints in this situation are rarely discovered dur- 
ing life. 

3 — Denotes an enlargement, probably produced 
by a blow received during a leap, or given by an 
impatient groom. It is placed directly under one 
of the extensor tendons. In consequence of this 
minute substance, the severest agony is endured, 
or the most marked lameness exhibited, whenever 

1. A splint involving the the leg is advanced. 

bones of the knee-joint. rni ^ • -^ /» ii it i, 

2. A splint interfering with 1 he great majority or these maladies may result 

the action of the back sinews. « ,i . x- i • i j.- i j.i j. 

3. A small splint situated ffom the present rage lor high action, and the too 
rofmuscie!'"'"''"'^'' '"''''■ general practice of pushing the horse beyond his 

speed. Racers and hunters commonly have splints : 
almost every roadster exhibits them. Few draught-horses are without 
them : they are all but universal. It may be easy to detect or to feel a 
full-sized splint ; but it is rather difficult to discover these tumors when 
they are small, or Avhen they are just beginning to develop themselves. 
At that period they are most painful. They may be mere deformities when 
fully formed ; but, when growing, though not to be 
seen, they are apt to cause decided lameness. 

The cause of such failing action very often can 
only be guessed at. To detect a fully-developed 
splint, stand at the side of the animal's leg and 
grasp the posterior part of the shin ; then, by run- 
ning the thumb down on one side and the fingers 
on the other, in the groove formed by the junction 
of the two small splint-bones with the cannon- 
bone, the examiner may recognize enlargement or 
feel heat, should either exist. By making pressure 
where the heat or swelling is perceived, he may 
cause the leg to be snatched up. Should nothing- 
result from this trial, the animal is trotted gently 
up and its action is observed. Horses with splints, when lame, gener- 
ally "dish" or turn the leg outward, when it is raised from the ground. 
That is done because the bending of the limb pressed the splint-bone 




A HORSE "dishing," OR CAR- 
RTING THE FRONT LEG OUT- 
WARD, WHEN ON THE TROT. 



SPLINT. 297 

downward, the outward carriage of the shin being an endeavor to lessen 
the pain which attends upon the natural action. 

Should no "dishing" be remarked, next observe whether the leg is 
fully flexed or advanced; and, after the hints thus received, the inves- 
tigation may be resumed with a better prospect of success. 

The treatment of splint is conveyed in the old maxim, "time and 
patience." Rest will do more than physic. A man, therefore, may as 
well let his horse rest in his own stable, as pay for rest, lodging, and 
useless treatment in another place. Splints, moreover, if only subjected 
to rest, accompanied with liberal feeding, are likely the sooner to attain 
their maximum magnitude. If they are interfered with under the pre- 
tense of treatment, the irritation may cause them to increase ; thus the 
proprietor, through his impatience, may purchase an injury. 

When they are acutely painful, a poultice, on which one drachm of 
opium and one drachm of camphor is sprinkled, will frequently afford 
relief. They may also, at such times, be rubbed with a drachm of chloro- 
form combined with two drachms of camphorated oil. These measures, 
however simple, aim at mitigating the present symptoms — they do not 
even infer the possibility of curing the disease. Periostoteomy pre- 
tended to do something of that sort ; but has failed so often, it is now 
seldom recommended by practiced veterinarians. 

When, however, a particle of the bone interferes with a tendon, the 
lameness is so acute that often the choice lies between cure and death ; 
for some, even of present proprietors, scorn to sell a favorite horse which 
has become sick in their service. In these cases, it is lawful to open the 
skin, and with a fine saw, a chisel or a sharp knife, to remove the offend- 
ing growth ; after the operation, leave the skin open and dress the wound 
with a lotion made of chloride of zinc one grain, to water one ounce. 
This application has the great merit of keeping down granulations ; but 
employ nothing irritating to the bone, or the result may be worse than 
the injury which has been removed. 

Splints sometimes occur on the outer side of the hind leg ; there, how- 
ever, they are little thought of. Tlie hind leg propels the horse, but 
does not support its body; therefore, splints of this last sort are less 
unpleasant to the rider. The hind leg, not bearing much weight, splints, 
when situated on that membei", do not occasion very severe lameness, 
and the enlargement being located upon the outside of the shin, is thereby 
removed from the possibility of being struck by the opposite hoof. For 
these reasons, splints of the foregoing nature are considered trifles, and 
are rarely esteemed worthy of much notice. 

To check the further enlargement of a splint with a fair chance of also 
removing the deformity — though with no hope of releasing the parts 




298 RING-BONE. 

locked together by bony union — employ the ointment already recom- 
mended for spavin : — 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Simple ointment Eight ounces. 

Mix, and apply with friction thrice daily. 

RING-BONE. 

The whole soul of the horse seems devoted to man's will ; who has 
not seen a team of small but sturdy horses contrive to drag a heavy load 
up a steep hill, as though nothing could afford them such content as to 
leave their hoofs behind them 1 What Londoner 
but has witnessed the cart-horse dig its toes into 
the stones of Ludgate Hill, and make the muscles 
bulge out upon the glossy coat as though life had 
but one object, and to that object the animal was 
straining every nerve I 

A sight such as this, when properly contemplated, 
A HORSE STRAINING TO canuot othcrwisc than teach man to esteem his fel- 

MOUNT A STEEP HILL. 1 .1 

low-laborer; for what creature on earth toils so 
willingly in the service of humanity as the horse ? At any hour it is 
ready — in health it is willing, and in sickness it is obedient ; even when 
worn out, entirely used up and driven to the slaughter-house, it looks 
upon its slayer with large placid eyes, stands quietly in the place 
where it is bid, with no mistrust in the kindness of its abuser, and ends 
a life of devotion by accepting the blow almost as a favor. It is the 
only animal which lives but to more than share the burden of its owner; 
yet, of all existing quadrupeds, the horse is the most ill treated. 

Ring-bone is an osseous deposit ; so far it resembles splint and spavin : 
it differs, however, in the kind of horses it attacks. Splint and spavin 
are principally witnessed upon quadrupeds of speed. Ring-bone is all 
but confined to the cart-horse. It is caused by those violent efforts this 
animal makes, in obedience to the voice of the driver, when dragging a 
heavy load up some sharp ascent. The entire force is then thrown upon 
the bones of the pastern ; inflammation ensues ; lymph is effused ; the 
lymph becomes cartilage, and the cartilage is converted into bone. Then 
an exostosis is established, and a ring-bone is the consequence. 

The disease may implicate one or more bones; it may involve one or 
more joints; it may also be confined to one bone; it may be either par- 
tial or complete. It may exist as a slight enlargement in front of the bone, 
or it may quite encircle it. On page 299 is a specimen of the disease. 
The exostosis, as in this case, was prominent during life. The disease 



RING-BONE. 



299 



did not quite encircle the bones, and though, when the preparation was 
dried, the different parts could be slightly moved one upon another, 
yet, during life, the joints were firmly locked. 




THE PASTERN AND PEDAL BONE OF A HORSE 
AFFECTED WITH SEVERE RING-BONE. 

1. The joint between the pastern bones, showing 
the groove in which the tendon of the extensor 
pedis muscle reposed. 

2. The joint between the lower pastern and the 
bone of the foot. 




THE FOOT OF A LrVING HORSE WITH 
AGGRAVATED RING-BONE. 

The animal, from which the above sketch 
was taken, althouRh used to propel a cart, 
was by no means of a cart breed. The crea- 
ture rather hobbled than went lame ; but all 
flexion was entirely lost in the pastern bones. 



One of the above sketches depicts this disease as it appeared 
prior to death. The reader has now to consider the consequences of 
such a deformity; it materially interferes with the value. The hind 
limbs are the instruments of propulsion in the horse ; these are much 
incapacitated by the presence of ring-bone. An animal thus affected 
might move an easy load upon even ground; but when the weight had 
to be drawn up hill, the creature would obviously be unable to use the 
toe ; the foot, placed flat upon the ground, or so shod as to have an even 
bearing, would perceptibly be of comparatively little use in such a case. 
So, also, in descending an inequality, the horse with severe ring-bone 
will be unable to bite the earth. Ring-bone, therefore, does incapacitate 
the animal for many uses, besides interfering with the free employment of 
the muscular energy; no persuasion or brutality can induce a maimed ani- 
mal to cast its full weight upon a diseased limb. The pace may be quick- 
ened by the lash ; but the horse will, nevertheless, continue to hop when 
the aifected member touches the earth. 

Let mankind, therefore, reflect that the horse is given as their fellow- 
laborer. The life of the quadruped is the property of the master; but 
who, being sane, would abuse his own property ? The being who should 
destroy chairs and tables — although such things can be mended — would 
be speedily confined as mad. Yet it has not- entered the mind of man, 
as a reasonable idea, that to deface a living image — to destroy the value 
or to deteriorate the property which is present in the animal — deserves 
more than the very mildest of punishments. The breathing creature, 



300 STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 

when defaced, cannot be made sound again. Horse property is noto- 
riously hazardous. It should be the care of men to use a tender thing 
with a greater gentleness. Instead of which, horses are galloped till 
they become blind, and lashed to drag weights beyond the proper limits 
of their strength. Men, who never think in whom the fault really lies, 
complain that Providence has not suited the horse to purposes such as 
would derange most iron -wrought machines 1 

When a horse first shows ring-bone, seek to allay the pain. Apply 
poultices, on which one drachm of powdered opium and one of camphor 
has been sprinkled. Rub the disease with equal parts of oil of camphor 
and of chloroform. The pain having ceased, have applied, with friction, 
to the seat of enlargement and around it, some of the following oint- 
ment, night and morning : — 

Iodide of lead One ounce. 

Lard Eight ounces. 

Mix. 

Continue treatment for a fortnight after all active symptoms have dis- 
appeared, and allow the animal to rest — being liberally fed for at least 
a month subsequent to the cessation of every remedy. When work is 
resumed, mind it is gentle, and be very careful how the horse goes to its 
full labor. 

STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 

The flexor tendons of the legs are liable to a variety of accidents. 
Injuries to these structures, according to their severity, are denominated : 
strain of the flexor tendon, clap of the back sinews, sprain of the 
back sinews, and breaking down. 

The first accident is common enough, and springs from the horse being 
forced to perform extraordinary work on uneven ground. Else it is 
caused by the irritability of the rider; tugging now at one rein, then at 
the other; forcing a timid animal into strange contortions, and at the 
same time elevating the head, thereby throwing all the strain upon the 
muscles. This is a spectacle repeatedly presented to him who walks 
about town. An angry rider is seen sawing, without compunction, at 
the mouth of some patient horse. The spectators look on complacently. 

There is nothing offensive to them in an enraged man venting his 
anger on an unoffending creature. Were the act generally reprehended, 
it would not be so frequently exhibited ; but the only emotion the con- 
templation of another's brutality appears to elicit, is a desire in the pas- 
sengers to provide for their own security. 

The main cause, however, of the most prevalent of these sad deform- 
ities is that of the shaft-horse descending a steep declivity with a load 



STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDON. 301 

behind it. The weight would roll down the descent : this the horse has 
to prevent, and the chief stress is then upon the back tendons. The in- 
juries to such pai'ts are generally of a chronic character. The strain 
seldom occasions decided lameness. But the horse being harnessed to 
the shafts, the cause is in daily operation. The part injured is being 
constantly excited. Thus, without the development of a single acute 
symptom, the tendons are stretched — a low kind of inflammation is 
generated — and this action being kept up, the sinews gradually lose 
their elasticity, and shorten. 

When strain of the fore leg is received, the animal goes oddly, but is 
not lame. However, if put into the stable and taken out the next morn- 
ing, the horse is found to be stiff and apparently very cramped. The 
halting action may disappear upon exercise ; but assuredly it will again 
be present on the following dawn. The proprietor may resolve to work 
"the brute" sound. Such a speculation with disease may occasionally 
answer ; but, on the large scale, it is a losing game, for it more often 
fails than succeeds : the limb, on work, commonly does not amend. The 
symptoms are aggravated in every way ; and what was curable in the 
first stage is apt, after the lapse of time, to degenerate into an intracta- 
ble malady. The many horses to be seen in the London cab ranks, with 
the fore limbs permanently contracted, are evidences as to the result of 
such very knowing treatment. 

When a horse slightly strains the flexor tendon, do not expect to 
discover the seat of the affection till several hours have elapsed. Then 
pass the hand gently down the injured limb. A small swelling may be 
detected. The enlargement may feel soft, slightly warm, but hardly 
tender. Bind a linen bandage round the leg rather tightly, and keep 
this constantly wet with cold water. For the three first nights, have 
men to sit up in the stable and perform that operation. After that time, 
if everything goes on well, wet the limb only during the day. 

Throw up the horse till more than recovered, and do not put it to full 
work till some period after that event. Give immediately four drachms 
of aloes. Allow only two feeds of corn per day ; but do not turn out 
to graze, under the idea that it saves cost and gives a chance that the 
animal may be taken up sound. At grass, the horse must walk many 
miles to eat poor food, sufficient to support life. This kind of motion 
will not suit a strain, which does best with absolute rest. Keep, there- 
fore, in a stall, and do not begrudge the necessary meat to support the 
life which has suffered injury, and is now enduring pain, in consequence 
of exertion made in your service. 



302 



CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



When the accident is more severe, and the sprain more decided, it is 
spoken of as " clap of the back sinews ;" this is a serious affair. The 
usual fate of the wretched animal thus maimed is to be sold to the. 
highest bidder. It passes from a carefully-tended stable to some wretched 
out-shed ; and its new master is made happy, if the crippled horse can 
only limp, and somehow get through a day's labor. No pity is wasted 
upon agony; "the beast," as it is now called, has to live worse, work 
harder, and drag out a miserable existence with the heavy burden of an 
almost useless limb. 

Clap of the back sinews results from exertion ; it may be the work of 
an instant. The horse sometimes is pulled up, or, 
in severe cases, it falls. If it be pulled up, it refuses 
to move at a quicker pace than a hobble, and stands 
still again so soon as whip or spur are not applied 
to the sufferer's body. The maimed limb is flexed, 
and rests upon the toe of the injured leg. There 
can be no mistake now about the seat of lameness ; 
the foot of the affected limb will hardly be put to 
the ground. The seat of the malady is soon de- 
clared. In a short space a tumor displays itself; it 
is small, hot, tender, and soft, in the first instance, 
though it soon enlarges, and grows very hard. The 
animal does not exhibit much constitutional distress, 
for it requires excessive pain to call forth such a dis- 
play in the patient and most enduring horse. 

Physic is necessary in this case ; a gentle blood-letting, 
even, may be required, followed by a few doses of febrifuge 
medicine ; but the treatment should be carried no further 
than is necessary to reduce the pulse to fifty-five degrees. 
The leg should be wrapped in a stout linen bandage ; day 
and night the part should be saturated with the coldest 
possible water until the primary symptoms have abated. 
Cut grass should be the food while any fever rages, but no 
longer, for the wish is not to destroy the powers of repara- 
tion by weakening the body. The cold water should be 
continued till recovery appears confirmed ; but it will be 
many months before the horse, thus disabled, will again be 
fit for full or energetic work. Commonly, however, this 
accident takes place in the hunting-field ; and sportsmen, 




THE EARLIEST SYMPTOM OP 
CLAP OF THE BACK SIN- 
EWS, OR SEVERE SPRAIN 
OF THE TENDON. 




THE BLEMISH 
LEFT BY CLAP 
OF THE BACK 
SINEWS. 



SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 



303 



silly as may be their amusements, ai"e no niggards. If they occasionally 
injure a horse, they will spare no expense that can aid its restoration ; 
and a summer's rest may not be thrown away upon the favorite which 
has met with such a mishap. However, the mark will remain for life — 
an obvious swelling will, during existence, denote the place where clap 
occurred to the back sinews. 




SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Sprain of the back sinews of the hind legs is very general among ani- 
mals which have to perform slow work upon hilly roads. People in the 
carrier trade can afford to bestow small attention upon 
the lameness which does not incapacitate. Every jour- 
ney, however, aggravates the disease. The horse works 
on till his owner is told by the blacksmith the animal's 
legs are contracting, and higher calkins are given as 
a cure. 

At length, however, calkins become of no use. The 
work continues, and the disease progresses. The posi- 
tion of the foot is now so altered, that the smith dis- 
covers his office is unable to render the animal useful. 
Perhaps these circumstances would little affect the 
owner, but the horse evidently loses power. At first it 
is longer on the road. The passengers grumble at the 
delay, (for country carriers reap no little profit by car- 
rying passengers ;; and the driver, flog as he may, can 
oblige the horse to move no faster. Excessive beating is apt to provoke 
pity ; and every word of pity which is lavished on the evidently eager 
animal is distasteful to the cari'ier, who vents his anger 
upon the wretched cause of all "this rumpus." 

At last the horse cannot guide the cart down hill, 
even when lightly loaded. Assistance is at first pro- 
cured ; but very soon the assistant has to do all the labor. 
The proprietor cannot imagine what ails his horse ; it 
keeps getting worse and worse. He takes the animal 
to a farrier. Remedies — oils and blisters — are applied 
to no effect. A veterinary surgeon is consulted, and 
the master learns that the only hope left him lies in 
division of the tendons of the hind leg. — (See oper- 
ation.) 



HIGH CALKIX?. 

The. oiiil'pst att'^n- 
tion CdiMiiKinly paiil 
to sprain of the back 
sinews of the hind 
leg. 




THE SURE RESULT OF 
COXTINUED WORK AF- 
TER STRAIN OP THE 



BACK TENDONS. 



When a cart-horse's heel heightens, always attend to 
the back sinews. Feel them gently, to discover if one place is more 



304 BREAKING DOWN. 

tender, harder, softer, or slightly warmer, than the rest. Should this 
not succeed, pinch them hard, and run the fingers down them, marking 
the part at Avhich the animal flinches. Healtliy tendon will endure any 
amount of pressure ; diseased tendon is acutely sensitive. Having dis- 
covered the locality of the injury, order the hair to be cut short. Put a 
linen bandage round the lesion, and see that it is constantly kept wet ; 
but do not expect a speedy cure. Those structures which are slow to 
exhibit disease are always tardy in resigning it. Bone and tendon are 
of this kind. 

Therefore do not expect any relief before three months have expired, 
and it will certainly be six months before the horse is fit to resume labor. 
Do not blister, bleed, seton, or fire : these things are expensive, and 
occupy much time. Have patience. Grant the time which the supposed 
specifics would employ, and the effect, with or without their use, is very 
likely to be the same. The only remedy for a badly-contracted tendon 
is an operation, and to that subject the reader is referred. 

The horse, however, which has been subjected to such a remedy will 
never be fit for its former uses. No art can restore the primary strength 
of nature, although human intelligence may arrest the progress of dis- 
ease. The thought, that the consequences of ill treatment are not always 
to be eradicated, should surely induce greater care of that property 
which, once lost to man, can never be replaced. 

When a tendinous structure is injured, the best treatment is gentle- 
ness and patience. Blisters, setons, etc. can only change an acute dis- 
order into a chronic deformity. Entire rest, with such applications as 
ease the attendant agony, and a sympathy that can afford to wait upon 
a tardy restoration, are better than all pretended specifics. 

BREAKING DOWN. 

Breaking down is the severest injury which the tendons can endure. 
In proof of this may be cited the general notion that, when a racer 
breaks down, some of the back sinews are ruptured. This, however, 
does not often occur ; but though the tendons are, generally, only se- 
verely sprained, some of the finer tissues, which enter into the composi- 
tion of the leg, are in all eases actually sundered. 

The animal is at its full pace — doing its utjnost, and delighting its 
rider, who feels confident of coming in first. Instantaneously the horse 
loses the power of putting one fore leg to the ground. The jockey 
knows what has taken place. He flings himself from the saddle, and 
hastily glances at the animal's foot. It probably is distorted ; or, per- 
chance, the accident may have taken effect higher up, and the injury 



BREAKING DOWN. 



305 



merely be severe clap of the back sinews. Be it which it may, with a 
heavy heart at loss of money and credit, thus suddenly snatched from 
him, the jockey leads the horse toward the stand, or, by the shortest 
road, to the stable. 




BREAKING DOWN. 



Many horses, after encountering this accident, are instantly shot. The 
poor animals, by such a proceeding, are saved from a painful cure and 
a crippled existence. Such conduct is, however, seldom actuated by 
thoughts of mercy. Nevertheless, to an animal of motion, 
whose every feeling is displayed by means of its limbs, and 
which is instinctively more perfect in action than the most 
accomplished ballet-master, the incumbrance of a leg mis- 
shapen, callous, and unwieldy, must be a serious affliction. 
The limb is spoiled for life in the horse which has broken 
down. The pain in time departs ; the breathing becomes 
quiet; the pulse sinks to the normal point; the appetite 
returns, and the spirits grow to be as high as ever. But 
no art can replace the structures which have been disorgan- 
ized; and the limb, after everything approaching to inflam- 
mation has subsided, remains a huge, unsightly object — an 
affliction to its possessor. 

The treatment of breaking down has not been much experimented 
with. However, constitutional measures are, at first, imperative. At 
the same time, a bandage should be applied to the injured limb, and this 
bandage should be kept constantly wet with cold water. A high-heeled 

20 




the consequence 
of " breaking 
down" in the 

EOBSE. 



306 CURB. 

shoe should be put on as soon as may be possible ; but no treatment can 
hope to restore the horse to its departed agility, or even to fit it for 
ordinary usefulness. However, should it be a stallion or a mare, it may 
be as valuable as a sounder animal for stud purposes. Accidents are 
not hereditary ; nor is there any reason why the foal of a horse which 
has broken down should not excel the progeny of a more fortunate sire. 
Among racers, emasculation not being the general practice, this opinion 
may probably save many a favorite from the doom which a disappointed 
proprietor now too often inflicts. 

CURB. 

This is one of the evils which chiefly are the property of the better 
breed of horses. Man delights to show off the animal he is mounted 
upon. Be it male or female, old or young, the equestrian is always 
pleased by the prancing of the horse. The creature seems to compre- 
hend, and to derive gratification from obeying the wish of its superior. 
It enters into the desires of its dictator, without a thought of prudence 
or a care for its personal safety. In hunting or in racing, the simple 
horse more than shares the excitement of its rider, and often encounters 
the severest accidents in consequence of these amusements. That which 
is pastime to man frequently proves death to his amiable servant. Often 
is the animal so maimed by these sports as to necessitate its life being 
taken upon the course or in the field. 

These reflections are very painful to any body who appreciated the 
loving and devoted character of the quadruped. Among 
the least of its sufferings probably may be reckoned curb, 
although the mark of the affection nearly always remains 
for life, and the misfortune sometimes quite disables the 
horse which incurs it. It consists of an enlargement, 
or a gradual bulging out, at the posterior of the hock. 
There is some dispute about the seat of curb. The 
A CURB. author examined a hock which had chronic curb, and 

found the perforan tendon disorganized. The late Mr. 
W. Percival (the respected originator of the very best work upon the 
horse and its diseases which is extant in the English language) also 
inspected a hock, and found the sheath of the tendon more involved than 
the tendon itself. However, a slight acquaintance with the mystery of 
anatomy assures us that the tendon must have been stretched when the 
sheath was injured, since the first invests and is inserted into the last. 
It is well known that synovial membrane is far more sensitive than ten- 
don. It is therefore probable that the membrane would exhibit disease 




CURB. 



307 



before the tendon displayed the slightest symptom of being affected. 
The membrane is also capable of displaying the signs of injury long 
after every trace may have disappeared from the tendon itself. 

The effect of the treatment at present adopted is to confirm the 
enlargement, or to change the swelling into a lump of callus, which will 
accompany the sufferer to its death. Curbs are said to be the inherit- 
ances of animals of a certain conformation. Horses born with what are 
termed curby hocks are asserted to be much exposed to this kind of 
accident. The author has, for many years, particularly inspected animals 
of this description ; and he never recollects to have seen a curb upon a 
hock of that peculiar conformation. To be sure, no man is likely to 
select either a hunter or a racer from a tribe thus bearing upon their 
limbs the signs of weakness. The creatures are consequently exempted 
from the great provocatives of the accident. However, that the reader 
may fully comprehend what is meant by a curby hock, one is here repre- 
sented, together with a sound or naturally-formed, clean joint. 





A CLEAN HOCK. 



A CURBY HOCK, SLIGHTLY 
BULGING OCT BEHIND. 




The custom of blistering a horse the instant a curb appears is most 
injurious. Harm is done, in every point of view, by 
such a habit. The animal should have a high-heeled 
shoe put on immediately, so as to ease the overstrained 
tendon. The part ought then to be kept constantly wet 
with cold water, so as to lower or disperse the inflam- 
mation. It should not be blistered, to heat and increase 
the vascularity of the structures. A cloth, doubled 
twice or thrice, is easily kept upon the hock by means 
of an India-rubber bandage, of the form delineated in 
the accompanying engraving. Such a cloth, so placed, 
is afterward to be made constantly cool and wet. 

This treatment should be continued ; the animal being confined to the 
stall and made to move as little as possible, until the heat and swelling 
are diminished and the leg is almost sound. The part being quite cool, 
a blister should then be rubbed all over the joint; and with that this 
treatment, in the great majority of cases, is ended. On no account 



AN INDIA-KUUUER 
BANDAGE, FOR KEEP- 
ING WET CLOTHS 
UPON A CURB. 



308 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 




THE LINES MADE, FOR SOME 
IMAGINARY BENEFIT, WITH 
A HEATED IRON, UPON THE 
HOCK OF A HORSE HAVING 
CURB. 



should any man allow his horse's hock to be fired for curb. This is 
a very general practice ; but the author has never witnessed any good 
result therefrom. He has, however, seen much 
agony ensue upon the custom. The form of the 
marks perpetuated upon the skin of a living creat- 
ure is shown herewith, and were plainly visible in 
the case of curb, which the writer dissected. 

Pulling horses up on their haunches is asserted 
to be a frequent cause of curb ; yet curb is not an 
accident commonly met with among those animals 
which drag London carriages. These creatures are 
being constantly thrown upon their haunches, it 
being, by ladies, considered "very pretty and very 
dashing" to make their servants tug at the reins, regardless of the living 

mouths on which these operate. 
— - Pulling suddenly up, however 

objectionable for other reasons, 
does not seem to induce curb, 
as London carriage horses are 
all but free from that affection. 
The disease is mainly caused 
by uneven ground wrenching 
the limb; by galloping at the 
topmost speed ; by prancing 
when mounted, or by leap- 
ing when after the hounds. 
Perhaps more curbs are to be 
seen in a district on which 
several packs are kept, than in any other part of the country. 




THE SUREST MANNER OF PRODUCING CURB. 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 

The horse is subject to many fearful maladies, but to none which is 
more terrible than ulceration between the bones composing the joints. 
Synovial membrane, cartilage, and bone are without sensation during 
health. The author hopes his reader is not conscious of a bone in his 
body ; it is also wished that he may read with surprise, that the ends of 
bones are covered with cartilage, and that many are invested with syno- 
vial membrane. As has already been observed, these structures in health 
are not sensitive ; but when disease starts up, be it only the slightest 
blush of inflammation, the acutest anguish is thereby occasioned. 

Ulceration of the joints is, unfortunately, rather common among 



OCCULT SPAVIN. 309 

horses; the animal, while being ridden, usually drops suddenly lame. 
It has trodden on a rolling stone, or made a false step, or put its foot 
into some hole, and injured the bone. After a little time, continuance 
of the impaired gait causes the rider to dismount ; nothing is to be 
found in the foot, yet the animal is taken to the stable decidedly lame. 
The foot is searched, the limb is examined, pressure, even of the hardest 




THE EXTENT TO "WHICH THE LEO IS CAUGHT UP WHEN OCCULT SPAVIN EXISTS ; ALSO THE VIEW OP THE FOOT 
PRESENTED TO THE SPECTATOR WHO IS PLACED AT THE SIDE OF THE HORSE, WHEN, DURING THIS DIS- 
EASE, THE LEG IS IN MOTION. 

kind, is endured with provoking complacency. No heat or swelling can 
be discovered ; but one thing is to be discerned, the lameness is most 
emphatic. After some time, a peculiarity in the trot may be remarked ; 
the lame foot hardly touches the earth before it is snatched up again, 
and that very energetically. Then, closer observation notes that the 
leg, when flexed, is always carried in a direct line, as it is when display- 
ing the symptoms of bony spavin. The hoof is never even partially 
turned outward. Still, neither of these traits is always displayed in 
so prominent a manner as to force attention ; frequently, a conclusion is 
to be drawn only from negative testimony — as the duration of the lame- 
ness, the soundness of the foot, and the perfect condition of the tendons ; 
these evidences, taken with the suddenness of the complaint, cause the 
practitioner to comprehend he has a case of occult spavin under treat- 
ment. 

Such is the origin of the disease : some authors assert the synovial 
membrane has been ruptured; some, on the contrary, say the bone has 
been injured. The author, knowing nothing, cannot tell how the disease 
begins, but he knows that from the date of its origin the horse is lame ; 
very bad one day, but better, probably, the next. Generally improved 
after rest, and always badly limping subsequent to work; never to be 
depended upon, for proprietors say the animal is sure, wherever its ser- 
vices are required, to be obstinately lame. 

Usually the wretched horse is blistered ; setoned ; blistered again ; 
and, at last, fired. All failing to do the smallest good, the horse is next 
turned out for three months; while at grass, the poor animal, with an 
acutely diseased joint, which is enlarged and stiffened by mistaken treat- 



310 OCCULT SPAVIN. 

ment, has to take one step for every morsel it bites of poor and watery 
food. It is forced to travel long and far, or literally to starve ; its body 
must rest upon the ulcerated bone, and the weight even be increased by 
the pendulous head before enough herbage can be cropped to sustain the 
life. At every step two ulcerated surfaces grate upon each other and 
are forced violently together ; while anguish consumes the flesh, the 
nature of the food may keep in the life, but cannot otherwise than 
depress the spirits. Besides, the horse has been turned from a sheltered 
stall where it was daily groomed, into a field where it has to brave the 
utmost stress of the elements, uncared for and unnoticed. 

At the end of three months the horse is taken up : to the master's 
disgust, it is found to be not looking smarter and not to be going 
sounder. More routine treatment is now permitted, and the diseased 
limb undergoes further torture ; another three months is passed, and the 
lameness becomes worse than ever. The proprietor is loath to part with 
his property; but he often says "he wishes the animal were dead." At 
last, losing all patience, and never having possessed any care for the life 
which had suffered injury in his service, the horse is lent to some carter, 
who undertakes to "work it sound. " This process never, in occult spavin, 
succeeds ; the wretched quadruped gets worse day by day, till neither 
oaths nor lashes can prevent misery from limping on three legs. 

At length, worked to a siieleton, the horse is returned to its propri- 
etor, who, inviting pity upon his misfortune, that life will feel, and that 
horse-flesh is subject to the ailments affecting all creatures which breathe, 
orders his servant to take "the beast" to the knacker's and to get what 
he can for it. 

Such is the history of ulcerated joint. All joints are exposed to 
ulceration ; every bone in the fore and hind leg may be thus aftected. 
The small bones of the hock are those most commonly diseased; when- 
ever this is the case, the only termination which can reasonably be hoped 
for is that the inflamed surfaces may be united. The bones are then 
bound together by osseous union, and are, of course, firmly locked ; 
they are no longer capable of the slightest movement one upon the 
other; but this is no vast evil: many animals are now at work having 
the smaller bones firmly united by osseous deposit. Horses in that con- 
dition are far from useless, even for the highest purposes. 

The man whose animal gets ulceration of the hock-joint ought to 
allow the injured quadruped even twelve months of uninterrupted rest. 
The first thing is to get the sufferer into slings ; the earlier this is done 
the better; it takes off the weight from the affected joint, relieves the 
pain, and gives the system full opportunity to rectify the lesson. To 
draw blood to the part and so promote deposit, rub in, once every two 



OCCULT SPAVIN, 



311 



days, some of the embrocation recommended in the article on " Rheu- 
matism," which is thus composed: of soap liniment, sixteen ounces; 
liquor ammonia, tincture of cantharides, and of laudanum, of each two 
ounces. There need be no fear of applying friction; the utmost press- 
ure made upon an ulcerated joint can call forth no response. When 
the joint is embrocated, wrap the part loosely in flannel, using an elastic 
webbing to fasten the portion above and below the hock, and not tying 
any fastening around the painfully-diseased member; give three feeds of 
corn, a few old beans, and sweet hay for each day's support, while the 
treatment lasts. 

The improvement will be denoted by the animal bearing upon the 
affected limb ; after three mouths or longer, the slings may be removed; 
in another three months, the horse, should the pace be sound, may per- 
form gentle work. However, the first three months must be reckoned 
from the date when the animal commenced to bear continuously on the 
ulcerated joint ; in short, the slings are not to be removed until long 
after the quadruped has, by its carriage, declared them to be useless. 
Then, for the three subsequent months, the work must not be violent; 
time should be allowed for the union to be confirmed, for, among the 
many diseases the horse is exposed to, there is not one more treacherous 
or more liable to relapse than occult spavin. 

Such is all that is necessary for the treatment of this disorder ; rest — 
perfect rest, with food capable of supporting nature in the reparative pro- 
cess — is everything which is absolutely necessary. A loose 
box even does injury, so entire must be the rest, which 
should be as near to stagnation as it is possible to make 
it. The embrocation is simply recommended to draw 
blood to the part, and promote the required deposition. 
One caution only is necessary — give no purgative ; keep 
the bowels regular by means of cut grass and bran 
mashes. 

If the above measures fail, as in the majority of cases 
they certainly will, nevertheless good will have been done 
by abating the violence of the ulcerative process. Before 
the last resort of all is adopted, another chance remains, 
which, as an experiment, is justifiable. Puncture the 
joint — a very small incision will be required ; have the 
limb forcibly retracted or pulled backward ; then inject, 
with a syringe having a fine point, about one ounce of 
dilute spirits of wine, in which is dissolved half a drachm 
of iodine. Immediately afterward place the animal in slings, and apply 
cold water to the hock by means of the India-rubber bandage described 




THE DISEASED 
BONES OF THE 
HOCK. THE DARK 
PLACE INDICATES 
WHERE THE Vh- 
CERATIO^ IS GO- 
ING FORWARD. 



312 RHEUMATISM. 

in the preceding article. Keep the horse liberally so soon as the pulse 
becomes quiet, and do not allow it to leave bondage till the tread is 
firm ; as exercise is endured, work may be very gradually resumed. 

Remember, the above is proposed only as a last experiment ; the 
design is to change the ulcerative action to one of a secretive character, 
and thereby promote union of the diseased bones. A trial of this kind 
has never been instituted ; but, certainly, judging from the result of a 
similar operation upon the human subject, there are the best grounds for 
anticipating good effects. That it may be known where to make the 
puncture, a drawing made from the bones of a diseased hock is inserted 
on page 311 ; the darker line marks the place where the ulcerated sur- 
faces existed, and into which the fluid should be injected. This, how- 
ever, is so nice an operation that, although unattended with any imme- 
diate danger, none but a skilled anatomist should undertake it. In 
proper and judicious hands it is perhaps as safe, and more likely to-be 
accompanied with benefit than the great majority of veterinary remedies. 

RHEUMATISM. 

This form of disease in the horse is commonly known as following 
more serious affections. After influenza it is very frequent ; it is not 
rare as coming in the train of thoracic disorders ; most important organs, 
being acutely affected, will leave it behind them. On rare occasions it 
may appear without any forerunner. 

Its advent is announced by swelling about the joints, accompanied by 
the most painful lameness ; the animal may not dare to put its foot to 
the ground. Often the disease flies about, now seizing upon one or two 
joints, next attacking the hitherto free members, and generally clinging 
to similar parts, as the hocks, knees, etc. Then it will return to its 
former abode — thus shifting about, to the torture of the animal and the 
confusion of him who may undertake its relief. 

One almost constant symptom is an increase of synovia. For synovial 
membrane, whether in the sheaths of tendons or on the heads of bones, 
rheumatism always displays a marked partiality. This structure is, as 
has been already noticed, without sensation during health ; in disease, 
however, its involvement communicates extreme agony. The afflicted 
horse stands with difficulty ; its pulse and its breathing declare its suf- 
ferings — both are quick and jerking ; the limbs may be greatly swollen ; 
and the parts secreting joint-oil bulged out, soft, and puffy, from the 
increase of their contents. 

No disease is accompanied with such long and extreme pain as rheu- 
matism ; the remedies, therefore, should be quick and effective. Procure 



RHEUMATISM. 



313 




THE STEAMING APPARATUS USED IJT 
BRONCHITIS. 



the steaming apparatus recommended for bronchitis ; fill the warm, loose 
box, into which the horse should be brought, with vapor ; while that is 
being accomplished, get ready the slings ; 
put the belly-piece under the animal, and fix 
them so as not to take the entire bearing 
from the ground, but so as to relieve the dis- 
eased joints of some portion of their burden, 
and allow the horse to rest its body when it 
is disposed to repose. 

Keep up the steam for one hour ; at the 
end of that period, have several men ready 
with dry cloths — wisps would be too excit- 
ing ; let the men wipe the horse quite dry, 
with as little noise and as much speed as 
possible? This over, order some of the as- 
sistants to put on the hood and clothing, also wrapping the sound limbs 
in flannel ; the disengaged helpers are to go upon their knees and rub 
into and about the seat of disorder a liniment thus composed : — 

Compound soap liniment Sixteen ounces. 

Liquor of ammonia Two ounces. 

Tincture of cantharides Two ounces. 

Tincture of opium Two ounces. 

When the liniment has been applied, incase the affected limbs in 
warm flannel. 

Many persons are at a loss to comprehend this last direction ; it is 
easily accomplished. Have ready some rings of elastic webbing to fasten 
over the members ; also procure four pieces of flannel, each rather more 
than the length of a limb. To the small ends of two pieces of flannel, 
one yard and a half long, attach a band of broad, elastic webbing, and 
fix a buckle and strap at the other terminations ; at similar points of the 
other two pieces of flannel, only these last are to be two yards long, like- 
wise fix broad elastic bands, and also append a buckle and strap. Place 
the long pieces of flannel by the hind limbs ; put the shorter flannels by 
the fore legs ; buckle the straps, the fore ones over the withers, and the 
hind straps over the loins. This will keep the flannel up to its proper 
height ; fasten it with the rings of elastic webbing to the hoofs, while 
the assistants are wrapping it loosely round the limbs. 

The horse being in the slings, no surcingle can be put on, nor is any 
needed. The animal with acute rheumatism is certain to stand quiet 
enough. So much being accomplished, give the horse a bolus formed 
of powdered colchicum, two drachms; iodide of potassium, one drachm; 
simple mass, a sufficiency. 



314 



RHEUMATISM. 



These measures are to be taken regardless of the condition of the 
body ; if the attack, however, follow another disease, the bodily support 
must not be too low. It should be all prepared or softened by the 
action of heat and water ; the oats should be of the best description ; 




A HOKSE DRESSED FOR RHEUMATISM. 



they should be crushed and boiled ; a few old beans, also boiled, may be 
added, and a malt mash occasionally will do no harm. To open the 
bowels, and likewise to allay excitement, give green-meat when required; 
but do not make a practice of allowing this sort of food in quantity, as 
it blows the animal out, weakens the digestion, and soon loses all laxa- 
tive effect. 

Next morning repeat the steaming, etc., and give a ball composed of 
a scruple of calomel and two drachms of opium ; allow only five pounds 
of hay during the day. At night, again steam, etc., and give the ball 
which was recommended on the first occasion. 

"When the horse begins to bear upon its legs, should the liniment not 
liave blistered the joints, the following may be applied with a soft brush, 
but without friction : — 

Tincture of cantharides One ounce. 

Camphorated oil Half an ounce. 

Tincture of opium Half an ounce. 

The horse may be of a full habit when affected; in that case, pursue 
the measures already recommended, but do not give the food before 
advised ; instead, allow bran mashes twice a week, and a bundle of green- 
meat once a day, and sweet hay must make up the sustenance for twenty- 



WIND-GALLS. 315 

four hours. Should the horse, however, appear to lose flesh and spirit, 
boiled corn must form a portion of the diet, and the quantity can be 
regulated only by him who has charge of the case. 

One caution must be given before concluding this article. A sick 
animal is very sensitive as to noises ; a door banged to will excite the 
terror of the poor creature, which, probably, was half asleep, with the 
head hanging down. A loud word or an energetic action will not unsel- 
dora call forth symptoms of such alarm as may threaten, through their 
utter recklessness, to demolish the structure in which the horse is con- 
fined. For these, if from no purer motives, respect the sufferings and 
wisely try to soothe the animal. As the creature is devoid of reason to 
shape its fears, approach it noiselessly; speak softly at first; ascertain — 
although the eye be closed — by the motion of the ears, whether your 
voice is heard. Then lay the hand upon the neck and gently caress the 
sick body; after that you may do what you please, so nothing be very 
sudden or very loud. 

Such slight considerations will not be thrown away, even in a medical 
point of view. A moment of excitement may do the injury which no 
physic will remove; nay, in critical stages, many a life has been lost 
from want of thought in the attendants about a diseased horse. 

DISTENTION OF SYNOVIAL MEMBRANE— WIND-GALLS. 

Man treats the horse after a strange fashion. He buys the animal for 
a large sum, because it possesses some particular quality ; but, hardly 
has he obtained it, before he behaves as though he desired only to 
destroy the property he has so dearly purchased. A horse, for private 
use, is generally bought for its beauty ; in a short time afterward it is 
sold as having become too deformed for its master's sei'vice. A year or 
two commonly suffices to spoil the most perfect animal. Many are 
ruined in their colthood ; many more are made worthless by the trainer. 
Of all creation, the horse is most abused. So universal is this custom 
that the marks of ill usage are in the market even regarded as if they 
were natural consequences. Those affections designated wind-g^alls are 
generally lightly esteemed by most horsemen when the animal is required 
for actual service — as hunting, racing, coaching, etc. 

Such marks, however, are evidences of hard work having been per- 
formed. Tliey are not natural formations; but are blemishes, which 
man, in his consideration for a dumb servant, is pleased to make light 
of. They do not generally impede the action — and lameness is the only 
fact a true horseman cares to notice. He will not stay to inquire what 
must have been the kind of work which could occasion the synovial 



316 WIND-GALLS. 

membrane to bulge out upon a living body. He does not care to ask 
whether Nature, when deformity first appeared, instituted the fact with- 
out intention. He will not condescend to question whether every un- 
natural appearance is not designed to be a warning. But he views wind- 
galls rather as a proof that the poor animal exhibiting them is a seasoned 
horse, and, therefore, is bettered by the distortion of a sensitive structure. 
Wind-galls are the result of severe work. The back sinews are incased 
in a fine sheath which contains synovia, or, as it is commonly termed, 
"joint oil." The use of the synovia is to facilitate the motions of the 
two great flexor tendons one upon the other; so, when the pace is too 
fast or the labor too energetic, the delicate membrane which secretes the 
synovia becomes irritated. The consequence of irritation is increased 
secretion. More joint oil is poured forth than the natural sac can con- 
tain. The membrane, therefore, bags out at those parts which are 
weakest. Two such places are situated above the fetlock and one below 
it. The localities, with the size of the tumors, as they generally are 
exhibited, the reader will find delineated in the following engravings. 





IHE SITUATIONS AND SHAPES OF 'WIND-GALLS. WIND-GALLS, AS THEY APPEARED TO THE 

AUTHOR, UPON DISSECTION. 

Wind-galls generally appear on the hind leg. They used to be re- 
garded as swollen bursas ; but Mr. Yarnell, Assistant Professor at the 
Royal Yeterinary College, by careful dissection, first pointed out their 
real character. He proved them to be synovial enlargements ; and the 
writer, benefiting by Mr, Varnell's instruction, has verified the fact. 

Yery slight physiological knowledge was required to detect they were 
not bursEe. Bursas are little round sacs, secreting a fluid like synovia, 
but always placed so as to facilitate motion. Now, wind-galls appear 
close to a synovial sheath ordained to serve the same purpose. They, 
moreover, start up in the hollow between the flexor tendons and the 
suspensory ligament, in which arteries, veins, nerves, and absorbents 
reside. The merit in discovering they had been misnamed was, per- 



WIND-GALLS. 



317 




THE DISAPPEARAXCE OF WIND-GALLS 
AXD TFIE PUFFINESS OF THE SYNO- 
VIAL MEMBRANE. PROPER TO THE 
FLEXOR TENDONS, WHICH ENSUES 
UPON EXCESSIVE LABOR. 



haps, small; but the credit of demonstrating what they actually were — 
which demanded a more elevated talent — remains with Mr. Yarnell. 

Wind-galls are fond of the hind leg; or rather, the hinder limbs do 
the heaviest portion of the horse's work; there- 
fore these deformities are commonly found on 
those members. There may be one or three 
on both sides of each leg: they generally are 
quiescent; but occasionally they prove wind- 
galls to be something more than the simple 
blemishes which man is pleased to esteem them. 
After a hard run it is not unusual to hear a 
huntsman complain that the wind-galls have 
disappeared and the back sinews of his hunter 
have become pufty. When that occurs, the 
entire sheath suffers excessive irritation, and 
has enlarged. The horse is then very lame, 
but a day or two of rest reduces the sudden 
enlargement, and the animal recovers its sound- 
ness. . 

Sometimes, however, repeated irritation starts 
up a new action ; the secretion becomes turbid, displays enormous float- 
ing threads of cartilage and occasional sanguineous infiltration ; the sac 
enlarges ; the walls begin to thicken ; the tumor feels less pulpy and more 
firm ; it grows harder. First becomes cartilage, and ultimately may be 
converted into bone. Mr. Gowing, of Camden Town, has a fine spe- 
cimen of this species of disease. 

During these changes the animal is very lame ; yet wind-galls are so 
lightly esteemed by horsemen as scarcely to lessen the price of a steed ; 
they are, in general, accounted hardly worth mentioning, although men 
have been known to be strangely anxious to have them removed. This, 
however, is not easy to bring about; all the common methods are worse 
than useless; the only treatment which promises any benefit is the appli- 
cation of pressure. Fold a piece of soft rag several times; saturate the 
rag with water; lay upon the wetted rag one drachm each of opium 
and of camphor; put these upon the enlargement. Upon the moistened 
rag place a piece of cork big enough to cover the wind-gall, and of such 
a thickness as may be necessary; above the cork lace on a vulcanized 
India-rubber bandage. Constant and equal pressure will by these 
means be kept up ; however, mind the groom be strictly ordered to 
take the bandage off the leg the last thing when the horse leaves 
the stable, and to put it on again immediately on the animal's return; 
otherwise, the proprietor may chance to enter the building and find his 



318 BOG SPAVIN. 

steed without an application, vvhicli, to be beneficial, should be per- 
petually worn. 

Such is the history and the occasional termination of wind -galls. What 
kind of man is he who, when purchasing a horse, can confidently assert 
the animal will not exhibit the worst stage of the affection ? A horse 
displaying wind-galls is prepared for the advent of the more serious form 
of disease; still, horsemen will persist in deeming synovial enlargements 
a trivial affair, when seen in the body of a creature whose utility resides 
in its power to move the limbs with agility. 

BOG SPAVIN. 

Bog spavin is a mark which man makes to signalize his authority over 
breathing flesh ; man, in his stupidity, will form notions of what animals 
should be ; he will not learn from nature. Thus the horse, which is 
made up of timidity and aifection, he loves to chronicle as fierce, fiery, 
noble, and courageous ; he talks largely of having mastered such or such 
a creature; he boasts highly of having laid whip and spur to a "brute" 
which, had he courted with gentleness, and wooed with sympathy, 
might not have been subdued so quickly, but assuredly would have been 
attached to him for life. 

The hocks suffer severely through such erroneous opinions. These 
convictions are widely spread and influence every horseman ; they con- 
trol the breaker, who acts as though he had a wild beast to conquer into 
a show of submission, not to train a living animal which is naturally 
willing, only afraid to submit. Instead of courting such a being, the 
bit, the lash, and the cold steel are brought to bear upon a frame every 
fiber of which already quivers with alarm; many a colt, consequently, 
is ruined by the breaker. The creature is pulled up with a tug at the 
reins; and pain never yet enlightened an understanding; the horse is 
forced to do what he would cheerfully perform, if man 
would only take necessary trouble to communicate his 
wishes to a creature which, not comprehending words, 
is naturally somewhat slow to interpret heavy chas- 
tisement. 

The breaker, however, is considered equal to his 

office, if he be a light weight and a very resolute man. 

'■ The young colt is sprained and jarred in every possible 

KMBRANE Hiauncr ; it is at last returned to its master more than 

-JOINT. ' 

half broken — in the literal sense — for the seeds have been 
sown which, in time, will assuredly crop into a host of virulent diseases. 
This affection is an increase of synovia in the upper or chief joint of 




BOG SPAVIN, OR DISTEN 
TION OF THE PRINCIPAL 
SYNOVIAL 
OP THE HOCK-JOINT. 



THOROUGH-PIN. 319 

the hock ; it lies upon the most inward and forward portion of that part. 
The increase of the contents causes the membrane to bulge out after the 
manner represented in the wood-cut on page 318. 

It is produced by repeated shocks to the limb, and in this respect 
resembles wind-galls; though situated in a different locality, it is also 
liable to the same changes. In short, the affections are the same, and 
are dissimilar only with regard to their relative situation. 

Bog spavin is thought slightly of by professed horsemen ; however, 
the reader must ask himself, if it be viewed as no deterioration, can it 
be also regarded as a recommendation ? Is a blemished leg, or a limb 
with disease, which is liable to assume an aggravated type, properly 
considered a sound member ? The writer thinks not. Bog spavin does 
not, in its ordinary stage, lame the horse; but can such an unnatural 
enlargement add to the pleasure of the animal's existence ? Were pain 
in man judged of entirely as it affected the walk of the human being, the 
disorders of how many people would the doctor esteem of little conse- 
quence ! Such a standard of agony is ridiculous. It is most difficult 
to say when no anguish is felt by the life which is denied the faculty of 
announcing its sensations through the medium of speech. 

THOROUGH-PIN. 

This disease is so called, because in some cases it pierces right through 
the thinnest part of the hind leg, or appears on either side immediately 
before the point of the hock. It, however, is often 
single. It is rarely present without bog spavin ; and 
in every instance which the author has examined, it 
communicated with the large synovial articulation of 
the joint. 

It is provoked by the same causes as generate bog 
spavin ; it is similar to that disorder in not being 
generally accompanied by lameness, and in being liable 
to the same fearful changes. Pressure and rest are the 
best remedies; pressure, applied after the manner recommended for 
wind-galls, may in some cases answer. The bog spavin and the 
thorough-pin, however, should not in every case be treated at the same 
time ; as a general rule, it is prudent only to attack one affection by 
means of an India-rubber bandage. This should be so cut as to release 
the bog spavin from all pressure ; and where the slightest uneasiness is 
evinced, all bandages should be instantly removed, while the corks and 
cloths — employed as for wind-galls — are taken off the thorough-pin. 

It is never well to attempt to cure the bog spavin first ; the treatment 




THOROUQH-1'IN. 



320 



THOROUGH-PIN. 



ought always to commence with the thorough-pin ; therefore, for a horse 
which will not endure the bandage, a truss must be procured from the 
instrument-maker. The truss is of the ordinary description, only adapted 
to bear upon the parts. This will probably act with efficacy equal to 
the bandage. When the truss has performed its oflBce, then a perfect 
India-rubber bandage may be safely applied. Only, mind and also 
employ with the last the corks and cloths; else, when endeavoring to 
remove one disorder, you may reproduce another. Watch the animal 
while wearing the bandage ; on the slightest change, either in habit or 
appearance, remove the India-rubber. Should the pressure affect the 
skin, (as it will in certain cases,) rags, thoroughly wetted, should be 
wrapped round the hock before lacing the bandage up. If the rags 
appear to be of no avail, it is better to forbear for a time, and to renew 
the attempt hereafter. 

The horse which exhibits bog spavin and thorough-pin also gener- 
ally shows wind-galls on the hind legs. Let the reader consider the 
hard usage the limb must have undergone before 
it could have become thus deranged. Here is a 
specimen, demonstrating the connection which ex- 
ists between thorough-pin and bog spavin. It was 
made in consequence of Mr. Varnell having in- 
formed the author that thorough-pin was a bulging 
out of the synovial sheath, proper to the flexor 
tendon; and was not, as is generally taught and 
credited, an enlarged bursa. The author found 
them to be in accordance with the description he 
had received : the enlai'gement called thorough- 
pin, and the synovial membrane of the hock, had united, and free com- 
munication existed between them, in the joint which the writer examined. 
Nature formed the synovial cavity of the joint as a distinct and 
separate part. It is usual for teachers to promulgate a maxim that 
Nature is all-wise. Man, however, it appears, can violently disarrange 
her provisions ; yet, by his fellow-men, he is accounted to have done no 
wrong who destroys the harmony of Nature. Thorough-pin is not, in 
popular estimation, essentially unsoundness. A horse thus disfigured is 
believed, nay, professionally pronounced to be, perfect, although two dis- 
tinct parts are battered into one. If two are beneficial, why was one 
only created ? The horse may not be lame ; but, granting Nature to be 
all-wise, must not the uses for which the limb was designed be injured ? 
The question is not, whether an animal trots sound ; but it is, whether 
it really is sound. What sane man would assert such to be the case, 
where the anatomical structures have been disorganized? 




DISSECTION OF THOROUGH-PIN 
AND BOG SPAVIN, DEMON- 
STRATING THE JUNCTION OF 
THE TWO AFFECTIONS. 




CAPPED KNEE — CAPPED HOCK. 32I 



CAPPED KNEE. 

Capped knee, in the fore limb, answers to bog spavin in the hind leg ; 
the diseases are alike in most respects. Both affect the principal ar- 
ticulation of a complicated joint; both may be provoked by the like 
causes; but the fore leg, being less exposed to shocks than the hinder 
member, must have been much abused before it could become thus 
deformed. 

Blows, also, are common originators of capped knee. This disorder 
is likewise peculiar for a course it takes. The fluid within 
the swollen joint is, upon excitement, secreted in such 
quantity as to tighten the enlargement. Ultimately it 
lames the horse, and at length bulges out, or points, after 
the manner of an abscess. If let alone, it would burst. 
Much of the surrounding parts would have to be absorbed 
or would be effectually destroyed before such a termina- 
tion could ensue. The life would be endangered, or a the synovial mem- 

BRANE OF THE 

lasting blemish would be left behind. To prevent this, knee-joint en- 

laroed. 

the surgeon draws the skin to one side, and, holding the 
point of his lancet upward, opens the capped knee upon its lower sur- 
face. A quantity of synovia, more or less in a turbid state, escapes, 
and an open joint remains. For the treatment of this contingency, the 
reader must turn to " Open Joint." (Injuries.) 

Capped knee is, by certain persons, viewed as a trivial accident. Gen- 
erally, however, it is regarded in a more serious light, because it is more 
conspicuous than bog spavin. We also should object to it, because, 
while liable to the same changes as wind-galls, etc., it is also likely to 
expose the horse to an open joint. It is, like wind-galls and bog spavin, 
to be reduced by pressure, though sometimes pressure will call up aggra- 
vated symptoms. Rest is the best treatment ; during the rest pressure 
may be safely applied. Pressure does not answer, however, while the 
limb is exposed to the irritation of work. The horse must be thrown 
up during treatment, and gently used after the animal has been patched 
up or "cured." 

CAPPED HOCK. 

When an injui'y is formed near an important part, Nature is so 
conservative of her creature's welfare that she always has some means 
ready to preserve the utility of the structure. Thus when, from exter- 
nal violence, the hock becomes capped, or a swelling like to that rep- 
resented in the following engraving ensues, to prevent the joint being 

21 



322 



CAPPED HOCK. 



thrown out of use Nature allows the skin to enlarge. The cap of a hock, 
originally, was a bursa. A bursa is a little bladder or round sac, formed 
of the finest possible membrane, and filled with a fluid similar to joint 
oil. Its use is to facilitate motion ; hence it eases the tightened skin 
over the points of the bony hock. But when it becomes deranged and 
swollen, the skin, which was dense, hard, and solid, stretches so as to 
cover the increase of bulk. 

The tumor, however, having been produced, may in time subside, should 
the injury which provoked it not be repeated. Too often, however, the 
cause springs from motives over which the animal has no control ; and 
the violence being renewed again and again, the swelling enlarges, and 
that which was soft and pulpy at first becomes hard to the feel, while all 




CAPPED UOI.K. 




THE LARGEST SPECIMEN OP CAPPED HOCK WHICH 
THE AUTHOR HAS MET WITH. 



sensation of fluid disappears. The provocative being repeated, the part 
first grows firm, then solid, while its bulk also enlarges to a fearful mag- 
nitude. There appears to be no limit to the size ; but the largest the 
author has encountered was nineteen inches in its greatest circumference, 
and seriously interfered with progression. Above, on the right hand, is 
a portrait of the tumor. 

These unsightly growths have two causes — the ignorance of the groom 
and the timidity of the animal. To speak of the last first : Dogs will 
dream ; often, as they lie before the fire, they work their legs and utter 
suppressed noises, being at the time soundly asleep. Dogs also have 
imagination. Almost everybody must have remarked the dog slink away 
from some object which is to be indistinctly seen in the dusk of evening. 
Nobody, however, seems to have credited the horse with either of these 
faculties. Because it is of service to man, it is appropriated, and the 
attributes belonging to the creature are overlooked ; the groom locks 
the stable door, and, having bedded the horses down, leaves them in the 
dark, "comfortable" for the night. One dreams — awakens in terror, 
similar to that which causes children to start out of their sleep with 
terrible crying. The hind legs are the means of defense with the horse ; 
it has no other, for it seldom, and not habitually, employs its teeth. The 
animal, in alarm, begins kicking, for terror becomes powerful as the 



fl 



CAPPED HOCK. 323 

reason diminishes. Animals have passions ; these man can, in himself, 
subdue with reason ; but the poor horse has no reason to restrain its 
emotions. Fear, once awakened, unopposed, possesses it ; it begins to 
kick before it knows why. Bodies of men are exposed to panics. Can 
we wonder, therefore, at a timid and unreasoning animal being subject 
to the same influences ? The kicking commenced, terror spreads ; and a 
whole stable full of horses, each chained to its stall, each alone, forbid- 
den the consolation of society, and prevented from scampering from the 
unknown horror, takes up the action ; thus thirty or forty horses may be 
heard, in the depth and darkness of a night, kicking at the same time. 
The hind legs, when forcibly projected, are apt to hit the point of the 
hock ; the bursa there developed is injured by the blow, and a capped 
limb is the consequence. 

Another cause is kicking while in harness. This habit is always 
attributed to vice : to speak of vice as associated with the ideas of a 
simple animal is purely ridiculous. Fear is a much more probable cause, 
if man would only expand his understanding to comprehend the motives 
likely to actuate an unreasoning creature ; vice is far too heroic an 
impulse, far too human a failing, for the horse to embody. Fear is 
essentially an animal passion; that some mighty influence agitates the 
quadruped, when it begins to kick in harness, is proved by the serious 
accidents the horse encounters through this habit. No life can be care- 
less of its own existence ; all creatures are conservatives where their 
own being is concerned. Would mankind only admit this fact, and seek 
to gain the confidence of, as they now labor to establish authority over, 
the horse, gentle words, spoken when the impulse was awakened, might 
reassure the animal, and would thus frequently save the owner from 
impending danger. 

A third cause is lazy drivers riding on cart-horses, when unhooked, 
as leaders of the wagon ; the poles, called spreaders, which keep the 
chains asunder, frequently hang so low that, at every movement of the leg, 
they strike the point of the hock. The uneven paving of some stables 
is likewise said to produce the disease ; in short, anything which may 
cause the point of the calcis to sufi'er violence will produce a capped hock. 

The cure for capped hock has been differently directed. Some hobble 
the hind legs of the horse, to prevent its kicking in the night ; some 
fasten a chain and a log to one hind limb, for the same purpose ; others 
suspend a piece of loose cloth at the back of the horse ; but the best 
plan is always to leave a lantern lighted in the stable. The power to 
see around reassures timidity, while darkness is an awful instigator of 
terror ; horses often fly back in their stalls, but never kick, during 
daylight. 




324 CAPPED ELBOW. 

Then, as to the cure : Such a tumor, when recent, is hot and somewhat 
painful ; at this time, keep it wet with cold water or with a lotion formed 
of spirits of wine and water in equal parts ; when the tenderness has 
subsided, procure some men who want employment and have strong 
arms ; set these fellows to rub the cap of the hock constantly, and the 
tumor, in three or four days, or in less time, will have disappeared. 

Should the enlargement, however, have become hard, the knife then 
must be employed ; the horse must be cast, and the substance must be 
carefully dissected out without opening the sac. This 
being done, remove none of the skin ; leave that bag- 
ging about the hock ; simply treat it with a lotion 
composed of chloride of zinc one grain, to water one 
ounce, and the integument will contract. Ultimately 
there will remain no more than will be required to 
cover the part, whereas, if any be taken away, the 
THE SKIN FROM BENEATH wouud, which In thesc cases never heals quickly, will 
Zped hock hTbeen be very long before it closes, .and, in proportion to 
REMOVED. ^jjg g|,jj^ which has been removed, there will remain a 

lasting blemish. 
There is another caution we have to give the reader before leaving 
this subject ; let no advice persuade, no temptation induce him to punc- 
ture, seton, or merely to open capped hock. The membrane lining the 
swelling is, when diseased, so extremely sensitive that the writer has 
known the lives of animals endangered by these so-called remedies. The 
author, moreover, never knew the enlargement to be much reduced by 
these means ; neither has it been the author's lot to witness much good 
follow the application of blisters. No ; extirpation is the only remedy, 
and it should be accomplished without puncturing the sac ; this is as 
safe an operation as there is in the entire range of veterinary surgery. 
There is neither nerve, muscle, membrane, vessel, nor any important 
structure to avoid ; with ordinary care, the removal is most easy. There 
is but one thing annoying connected with the business, and that is, the 
length of time which the healing of a necessary wound, made upon a 
point of motion, almost invariably occupies. 

CAPPED ELBOW. 

This is very common, especially among cart-horses ; it is attributed to 
the calkin of the fore foot ; to the point of the hind hoof; or to a 
stable floor, thinly bedded, and composed of sharp stones. So, like- 
wise, blows with the butt-end of the whip will induce it; but the harness 
probably guards the elbow, which therefore can be struck only in excep- 
tional cases. 




LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 325 

It consists of a bursa, which, as in the former instance, has been 
injured, and has consequently enlarged; in appearance and in its subse- 
quent course it greatly resembles capped hock, from 
which it differs only in a greater liability to ulcerate 
and become sinuous when allowed to remain until it 
is of extreme magnitude. It is said to derive that 
unenviable peculiarity from being situated nearer to 
the center of circulation. Capped hock is so little 
disposed to take on such a form of disease that the 

A CAPPED ELBOW. 

author cannot remember having seen a case of the 
kind ; with a tumor on the elbow, however, ulceration is unfortunately 
too common. That probability should forbid the owner to allovy the 
tumor to attain any great size ; when large, moreover, it is apt to encir- 
cle the elbow-joint, and then its size seems to render the removal appar- 
ently impossible. It, however, may be extirpated. All said of capped 
hock applies to capped elbow. 

LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 

That is displacement of the whirl-bone of the stifle, (which answers 
to the knee-cap of the human being.) Such an accident, fortunately, 
few horses incur; there are many veterinary surgeons who, during a 
practice extending over many years, have not encountered a single case; 
whereas other gentlemen will have hardly started in their profession 
before luxation of the patella is submitted to their notice. It is not 
peculiar to any district, it is not confined to any special breed ; it may 
afi'ect all kinds of horses in all sorts of places; for it is produced more 
by the parsimony or the uncharitableness of mankind than by any fault 
in the structure of the animal. 

In several localities throughout the country agriculturists, under the 
notion of saving money, determine to rear horses on short grass. The 
creatures are out in the fields during all kinds of weather; the body 
becomes debilitated under such a starvation system ; those parts which 
are naturally weak become weaker, while those structures which were 
originally endowed with strength grow comparatively stronger. The 
beautiful balance of nature is overthrown, and each portion becomes at 
discord with all the rest; any trivial disease may destroy the life thus at 
war within its own dominion. Colts frequently exhibit luxation of the 
patella before they are broken ; but it is always provoked by weakness, 
and commonly only seen where the management is faulty or the food is 
stinted. 

When the whirl-bone is displaced, it is always found as an unnatural 



326 



LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 



lump .upon the outer side of the thigh; it cannot, for three sufficient 
reasons, be drawn to the inner part of the leg. The inner condyle of 
the humerus, over which the patella plays, is sufficiently large to oppose 
any unnatural motion in that direction ; the inner ligaments are the 
weakest, and are, therefore, most readily stretched in the outward direc- 
tion ; the circumstances permit the bone to be displaced from the inside 
of the leg. Then, moreover, the muscles are altogether more powerful 
upon the outer side. Any force acts more energetically as debility 
increases, and, to favor it, there is less resistance in the direction oppo- 
site to which the force pulls; for these reasons the bone is invariably 
luxated upon the outer side of the animal's haunch. 

The symptoms denoting luxation of the patella are : the leg thrust out 
behind, and remaining fixed; the horse's entire frame is affected; the 

head is erect; the muscles quiver; the 
pastern of the protruded leg is violently 
flexed ; there is an unnatural swelling 
upon the outer and lower part of the 
buttock. If the animal be forced to 
move, it can only imperfectly hop upon 
three legs ; such an accident may occur 
at any time, and never be repeated. It 
may, however, become so common as to be 
mistaken for a species of habit ; for lux- 
ation of the patella, when by frequency 
confirmed, will take place upon the 
slightest possible cause. 
In stinted colts the most trivial motion will often give rise to this 
accident; the creature can hardly move without its leg being thrust out 
behind it. The cure is, in these cases, anything which may flurry the 
animal. A noise, made by moving the hand quickly and rather ener- 
getically from side to side within a hat, the crack of a whip, or any 
sudden and loud sound, will occasion the bone to return, with apparent 
ease and the utmost rapidity, to its natural situation. The colt, however, 
may the next moment exhibit the misfortune which, in young life, can 
only be cured by kindly treatment and liberal sustenance. 

Probably the author will best describe the nature of the affection in 
old animals, by narrating a case which a few years ago happened to 
himself. 

At the request of a friend he visited one of those auction marts for 
the sale of horses which in London are somewhat notorious. The object 
of his visit being, if possible, to purchase, his attention was directed to 
certain animals. As usual, a glance enabled him to pass by all the 




THE PATELLA, OK WHIRL-BONE DISPLACED. 



LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 327 

marked "lots," and he had reached the third stable, when his eye rested 
on a horse which seemed wrongly placed among such companions. It 
was lively, young, clean legged, short backed, well ribbed up — in fact, 
cue of those rare creatures every inch of which seems made for serv- 
ice. The height was fifteen hands three inches ; the color was a dark 
brown. The author tried in vain to discover if it had any "vice." It 
appeared perfectly quiet. He examined the feet; he could detect no 
unsoundness. He went to the office and ascertained the price — twenty- 
four guineas I It was too cheap ! Such an animal would be thrown 
away if sold for fifty guineas. "Would they give a warranty?" "It 
was not their custom to give any warranty." " Had the horse megrims?" 
"No." "Would they grant a trial ?" " It was contrary to their rules." 
Still the author wanted to buy; he would "deposit the cash, and if all 
proved right take the horse." "They never granted trials; but there 
stood the owner — the writer could talk to him." 

The person alluded to was lounging close to the writer's elbow, and 
was habited in that half- blackleg, half-blackguard costume which charac- 
terizes the low London dealer. The contemplation of this individual 
did not improve any previous opinion of the matter. However, the 
man's eye was firmly fixed upon that of his would-be customer, and, 
rather than encounter a disturbance, the author approached the fellow, 
to whom he repeated his request. The answers given were too similar 
to those received from the clerk for the likeness to be purely accidental. 
The dealer nevertheless saw a trial was imperative to convert the inquirer 
into a purchaser; and, rightly judging from appearance that there was 
little of the jocky in the writer's attainments, reluctantly consented to 
afford the demanded test. 

The horse was speedily between the shafts of a very light gig. The 
man took the reins, placed the whip behind him, and we moved off at 
the gentlest of possible trots. 'No objection was taken to the pace ; it 
gave the better opportunity of examining into the soundness. All was 
right in that particular. The steps were loud and even. After some 
time, during which the man frequently inquired if "I had had trial 
enough nowV we left the paved streets, but no entreaty could cause the 
pace to be improved. At length we came to a rise in the ground, and, 
as it was approached, my companion turned sulky. Hardly had the 
horse began to ascend the inequality, before it suddenly stood quite 
still. The gig was brought to with a jerk, which almost threw both of 
its occupants upon the footboard. The author was the first out of the 
vehicle ; there stood the horse — the leg out, the foot flexed, the head 
erect — displaying the evident symptom of luxation of the patella. 

An inn was fortunately near the spot. To the yard of the hostelry 



328 BLOOD SPAVIN. 

the animal was with difficulty led. Being sheltered in an unoccupied 
building, a groom was placed at the horse's head. A long rope, thrown 
over a beam, was fastened to the fetlock of the protruded limb. By 
this rope the owner stood ; and while he pulled the leg upward and for- 
ward, the writer was by the quarters, with both hands pushing the luxated 
bone inward. The patella soon slipped into its situation ; and the horse 
was afterward sold by auction for four guineas more than the author had 
refused to pay for it. 

Mr, Spooner, in his lectures at the Royal Veterinary College, always 




THE MANNER OP BETURNINQ THE PATELLA OP AN ADULT ANIMAL. 

recommends his hearers, after this bone has been returned, to place an 
assistant by the horse's side, with strict orders to hold the patella in its 
situation for some hours. Such advice is most excellent; to which we 
can only add, perfect rest, and as much strengthening food as the animal 
can consume. If such measures are pursued, and the horse be not used 
for six weeks subsequent to the accident, there need be little fear enter- 
tained of a second luxation of the patella. 

BLOOD SPAVIN. 

This disease is, happily, with the past: the writer has not seen an 
instance. Neither had the late Mr. Percival — the highest veterinary 
authority — after a life laboriously passed in scientific research. It is 
described to have existed as varicosity of the vena saphena, where the 
vessel crosses the hock. The cause is said to have been bog spavin 
when of magnitude : this, it is asserted, opposed circulation within the 
vessel; but the author conjectures the swelling must have assumed the 
callous state, before it could have offered sufficient resistance to the 
flow of blood to occasion the vessel to enlarge or to become varicose. 



BLOOD SPAVIN. 



329 



There is no cure for such a disease. The knife may remove the 
deformity ; but a larger blemish was often left as the consequence of 
the operation. Should such a case be known to any of the present 
readers, the author would advise the enlargement should be left alone, 
and trust placed in the absorbing powers of nature for its removal. 




A BLOOD SPAVI.V, AS IT IS EEPORTED TO HAYE ONCE EXISTED. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

THE FEET — THEIR ACCIDENTS AND THEIR DISEASES. 



LAMENESS. 

Op all inventions intended to mitigate the sufferings of the horse, 
none, perhaps, is so generally useful as the foot-bath ; certainly, not 
one is so decidedly beneficial in its operation. It consists merely of a 
wooden or iron trough, one foot deep ; the shoes of the animal should, 
if possible, be taken off before the hoof is allowed to tread within the 




A READY MEANS OP SOFTENINa THE HORN, TVHERE PRESSURE OF THE HOOF AGGRAVATES THE LAMENESS. 

bath ; or, if such a measure be not possible, then the burden of the 
horse's body should be counterpoised by means of weights. This pre- 
caution is always prudent, for, should the shod horse occasion fracture 
or breakage, an alarm might be excited which probably would ever after 
prevent the employment of the foot-bath with the same quadruped. 

The water should always be mixed without the building ; it is never 
well to excite an animal's fears by allowing it to witness unnecessary 
preparation. The author is fully aware that most people assert the 
horse has a very limited comprehension: so it may have; but it has an 
active terror, which is apt to misconstrue the simplest of motives. "Who- 
ever has seen the busy eye of the quadruped watching all that takes 
(330) 



LAMENESS. 331 

place around it, and noting every triviality whenever any unusual move- 
ment gives intimation to the animal that something is about to be at- 
tempted, will readily allow the need there is for excessive caution. The 
horse may comprehend nothing, but it is not, therefore, the less to be 
propitiated. Its terror has to be soothed and its confidence has to be 
gained; the last is soonest won by avoiding anything which possibly 
might excite the first. 

Always have the heat of the water ascertained by a thermometer. 
Sensation is only a relative test with regard to the presence or absence 
of warmth ; were it not so, the coarse hand of a groom, nevertheless, 
might easily endure that degree of temperature which should pain the 
foot and leg of a horse. Let the fluid in the first instance stand at 70°; 
after the animal has entered the bath, gradually and without noise in- 
crease the temperature up to 90°. 

At that standard the water ought to be maintained ; the hoof should 
remain soaking from four to six hours at each operation ; the groom, 
doubtless, will complain of having frequently to fetch warm water, and 
when not so employed, of being obliged to watch a thermometer; but 
the present book is not written to please the likings of any individual. 
To contribute to the welfare of the horse is the object of the writer; 
that he has not unnecessarily imposed an irksome duty upon any human 
being, the purpose for which the bath is introduced into the stable should 
be sufficient evidence. 

The horse's hoof is of considerable thickness; it is far from unusual 
with stablemen to saturate the healthy hoof with various greasy prep- 
arations ; therefore it will require some time before the heat and water 
can soften that which is, as it were, prepared to resist their action. The 
hoof should be rendered perceptibly soft when the object is to relieve a 
painful lameness ; the warmth and moisture should not only saturate 
the covering to the foot, but should also soothe the internal structures. 
The pressure of the horn may thus be mitigated, and the deep-seated 
inflammation likewise be ameliorated. 

When the bath is removed, the foot should not be left exposed to the 
air, as the horn then quickly dries ; it soon becomes harsh and brittle. 
In this condition, it is likely to do more injury to the sensitive parts 
than good was anticipated as the consequence of its immersion. The 
hoof, when taken from the water, should be incased in warm and air- 
proof bandages — the intention being to retain the heat, while evapora- 
tion is prevented. The bandages likewise answer another purpose; 
they protect the foot, which, being without a shoe, and covered by horn 
that has been deprived of its resistant property, is therefore much ex- 
posed to accidents. 



332 LAMENESS. 

To obtain the full benefit of the bath, the foot should enter it night 
and morning ; the animal should be subjected to its operation for at least 
four hours each time, and the ingenuity ought to be exerted to prevent 
the hoof from becoming dry in the interim. Perhaps nothing is better 
for this purpose than the leather ease, which is lined with sponge, and 
which can be procured of most tradesmen who deal in veterinary instru- 
ments ; it is made to fit the foot, also to envelop the pastern. The bot- 
tom portion is formed of the stoutest leather, and will aflford all desirable 
protection ; while the sponge will retain the moisture, which this material 
permits to be renewed, should circumstances, such as the heat of the 
hoof or the warmth of the weather, cause the fluid to evaporate. How- 
ever, such additions must always be made with warm, cold water being 
unsuited for the purpose. 

These particulars have been thus fully detailed because lameness con- 
stitutes no inconsiderable portion of equine misery, and because such 
ailments are more frequently encountered than special forms of disease. 
To judge quickly and surely of such affections proves in no small degree 
veterinary proficiency ; in every shade of lameness, the gentleman, unless 
more than usually practiced in such ailments, had better be guided by an 
educated opinion. Where it is possible to mistake another's misery, it 
displays no boldness to risk chances upon our own judgment. 

Lameness is simply the difference of bearing cast, during progression, 
upon the several legs. Pain in the joints, bones, or tendons is most 
severe. It is even more terrible when inflammation of such structures 
is confined within the horny hoof; of this torture man can know nothing 
— he may rest the angry limb, may recline the body, or may seek conso- 
lation in friendly converse and in mental diversion. From all the higher 
pleasures the horse is excluded. It cannot rest the leg ; and the instinc- 
tive dread which the sick animal displays of being unable to rise again 
prevents the quadruped seeking that relief a change of posture might 
afford. 

The horse always stands when seriously diseased ; often the erect 
position is continued to the last, for the sufferer ceases to maintain it 
only with the relinquishment of life. During severe lameness in one 
foot, the animal seldom lies down ; it stands and stands, often for months. 
How the limbs must ache ! Yet the relief which the slightest motion 
might induce is avoided with the tenacity which pain begets when oper- 
ating upon excessive timidity. Often one spot is occupied for months ! 
During this tedious period one foot is held from the earth. The mind 
shrinks from conjecturing the torture which could prompt such an act ; 
the reason retreats from contemplating the agony by which the deed can 
alone be occasioned; we shudder as the imagination remotely pictures 



LAMENESS. 



333 




THE MAXNER I\ WHICH THE HORSE PRO- 
GRESSES WHEN ONE FORE LEO IS INCA- 
PACITATED. 



the pains by which it must be accompanied ! Yet who has been much 
among stables, and has not witnessed manj"- such sights ? 

It requires small knowledge to recognize those lamenesses to which 
the heavy breed of horses is particularly exposed. Agony, being ex- 
cessive, always obliges this species of animal to indicate the limb, or 
to attract the attention of the spectator toward it. These creatures, 
when thus affected, if compelled to move, hop onward upon thi'ee legs ; 
the weight is never thrown upon the foot which has been severely 
injured. 

Illustrating this subject is the annexed 
figure of a horse which has been hurt 
upon the off fore foot ; the figure is sup- 
posed to be desirous of progressing, or to 
be in the act of bringing the hind limbs 
forward. The entire weight having for 
a certain space to rest upon a single sup- 
port, some time is spent in accurately 
balancing the body before this action is 
hazarded. The slightest mistake would 

necessitate a fall, of which it has been observed the sick horse is endued 
with a particular dread. Therefore, after a certain time spent in prep- 
aration, the legs are, with much muscular exertion, lifted from the ground, 
and the sufferer hops onward. 

The wretchedness of the quadruped, however, is not complete until 
one or both hind legs are implicated. From some hidden cause, the 
anguish of the animal, great as it may be, is not perfected while the 
lameness resides in front. The horse, suffering in a fore limb, has even 
laid on flesh during the period of enforced idleness. But when the pos- 
terior extremities are injured, the constitution is involved. The body 
wastes rapidly, and every fiber within the huge framework seems to quiver 
with sensibility. 

If the creature, thus disabled in one 
leg, is obliged to advance, the chief 
difficulty is to so place the sound limb 
upon the earth that the balance shall 
not be destroyed. There are the two 
fore legs to rest upon, and the head to 
act as a kind of counterpoise ; there- 
fore there is little impediment to rais- 
ing of the trunk ; but the obstacle con- 
sists in the peril to be surmounted when 
the sound member reaches the ground. 




THE MANNER OF ADVANCIXO THE HIND MEM- 
BERS WHEN ONE POSTERIOR FOOT IS INJURED. 



A certain shock has then to be 



334 



LAMENESS. 




A HORSE, HATINQ ONE HIND LEG RENIERED 
USELESS, BY A SUDDEN EFFORT ADVANCES 
THE FORE LIMBS. 



sustained, and the fear apparently is lest the slightest want of prepara- 
tion should bring the body to the earth. 

The next motion delineated necessitates the greatest care and the 
mightiest exertion. There ai'e several signs which declare such to be 

the case. To advance the two sound 
fore legs is an effort of despair always 
preceded by a pause. During the time 
the feet are from the earth, the entire 
weight, unrelieved by the slightest coun- 
terpoise, must be supported by one sound 
limb. The muscles on that side have 
to raise the trunk, or to perform double 
labor, for the step invariably is a species 
of leap. The body has not only to be 
lifted, but the strain must be maintained 
to continue or rectify the balance, A 
pause of more than ordinary length de- 
clares the magnitude of the approaching 
struggle. The teeth are clinched; the head is thrown backward; a deep 
inspiration is inhaled ; the muscles are powerfully excited ; and, with a 
spasmodic suddenness, the feet are projected onward. 

The step accomplished, the breath is released in a kind of heavy sigh ; 
the animal remains quiescent for a brief space, as though the greatness of 
the late effort had partially deprived it of consciousness. It is, however, 
an exceptional case for a horse of the lighter breed to be thus " hopping 
lame." In all animals, nevertheless, lameness is a heavy affliction; in 
all, the manner of progressing is characteristic of pain. Sufi'ering, more 
or less intense, is declared every time the injured foot touches the 
ground. 

One fore foot being affected, the head and body drop, or slightly sink, 

whenever the sound member rests upon 
the earth. This peculiarity a little re- 
flection will readily account for. Of 
course the desire of a lame animal is to 
spare the disabled foot as much as pos- 
sible. The injured part scarcely touches 
the earth, before, with an effort which 
raises the head and body, it is lifted 
again into the air. The least possible 
burden is thrown upon the disabled foot. 
However, the weight must be cast somewhere ; and by how much less 
one leg has to carry, so much more must the other support. Conse- 




A HORSE, IN THE ACT OP TROTTING, BEARS THE 
WEIGHT UPON THE S'JUND FORE FOOT. 




LAMENESS. 335 

quently, when the sound hoof comes to the ground, the extra burden 
rests upon it ; the head and body perceptibly drop, and the footfall emits 
an emphatic sound, the accent of which is increased by the all but in- 
audible tread of the opposite member.' 

The indication, however, is in some measure reversed when the lame- 
ness is situated behind. The movements of the head no longer accom- 
pany those of the fore legs ; for, al- 
though the head be not steady, it 
evidently is not influenced by the for- 
ward members. If, however, the mo- 
tion be closely observed, it will be 
found to be regulated by the move- 
ments of the posterior extremities, 
only with a difference. When the sound ^ 
hind limb rests upon the earth, the 

head is raised ; but the sinking or ele- ^ ^,^3,^ ^,,^^ ,,^, ^^ ,^, „,^„ ,,0,^ ^,,,3 
vation of the whole body is never so '•'"^ ^■='«'''' ^^''^ ''°= *"''''*" """^ """"-^ 

J TROTTING. 

marked as it is in the previous case 

of anterior injury. The movements characteristic of posterior lameness 
are, however, well shown in the haunches. When the sound limb reaches 
the ground, the hind portion of the body obviously drops upon that side ; 
when the painful member is caught up, that side of the haunch on which 
resides the disabled foot is also jerked upward. 

There are other sorts of lameness to be described. A horse is some- 
times returned by the smith lame all round. The gait is peculiar, because 
it is caused by the shoes being too small or tight. It has been likened 
to skating ; and the author thinks the term so applicable that he has no 
desire to change it. There can, however, be then no difficulty in detect- 
ing the cause of the affliction. The horse was, a short time before, sent 
to the forge a sound animal, and it has been returned a positive cripple. 

It is lamentable to remark the number of horses which are driven 
through the streets of London in a disabled condition. People appear 
to be without feelings or recognitions when the sufferings of horse-flesh 
are before them. An animal with scarcely a sound limb, or else "hop- 
ping lame," may frequently be seen, in broad daylight, attached to some 
gentleman's carriage or tradesman's cart, to a hired vehicle or a coster- 
monger's "all sorts." From the highest to the lowest, all are equally 
disgraced ; the toil of a life seems incapable of purchasing a day's com- 
miseration. A little forbearance might be a profitable investment in 
these cases ; but no person seems able to keep a horse and to allow the 
animal a day of rest. So long as it can crawl, so long must patience 
work I 



336 



LAMENESS. 




ACUTE LAMENESS CAUSED BY ULCERATIOX 
WITHIN THE HIP-JOINT. 



Other forms of suffering than those confined to the feet affect the pro- 
gression of the horse ; the "whirl-bone" or hip-joint is sometimes visited 
by ulceration. The symptoms then in a degree resemble those exhibited 
when occult spavin is present; the affected limb is, however, after touch- 
ing the earth, caught up more sharply when the hip is diseased. The 
hoof, moreover, is presented more fully during motion in the last-men- 
tioned affection. The best method, however, to ascertain the existence 

of the ulceration, is to hold some soft 
substance over the joint, then to strike 
it with a mallet; the shock will be 
communicated to the seat of lameness, 
and elicit an energetic response. 

Nothing can be done for such a con- 
dition ; certain barbarities are pro- 
posed as experiments by continental 
veterinarians ; but man obviously has 
no right to run chances with cruelty 
practiced upon breathing life. Hip- 
joint disease is decidedly incurable, and renders every step a separate 
agony. 

The shoulder is a very favorite seat of injury with those who pretend 
to a knowledge of equine ailments ; with such simple folk, if a horse be 

lame behind, the cause is always traced 
to the whirl-bone ; should an animal 
have partially lost the use of an ante- 
rior limb, the injury is invariably found 
in the shoulder. The proof of their 
correctness is always exhibited in the 
lessened bulk of the parts referred to ; 
but throw a limb out of use, as lame- 
ness in the horse always does, and the 
absorption of the whole extremity, 
from want of exercise, naturally ensues. 

The shoulder-joint is occasionally ulcerated ; but more often disease 
is found upon the tendon of the flexor brachii, a muscle which, arising 
from the shoulder-joint, is of service in flexing the radius. In both cases 
the seeming length of the arm is remarkable ; so also is the fixedness of 
the shoulder, and the obstinate refusal to advance or to flex the arm. 
The consequence is, that a horse with disease of the shoulder drags the 
limb, and never lifts the toe from the ground. 

Ulceration is sometimes, though rarely, witnessed within the elbow- 
joint ; a case of this description is recorded by the late W, Percival. 




DRAGGING THE LIMB, THE INDICATION OF 
SHOULDER LAMENESS. 



LAMENESS. 



33T 




THE MANNER IN WHICH A HORSE HAVING ULCER- 
ATION OF THE ELBOW-JOINT ENDEAVORS TO PRO- 
GRESS. 



The chief symptom indicated subacute laminitis ; the affection appeared 
gradually, and, without intermission, proceeded from simple bad to the 
very worst. The foot was, however, 
neither hot nor tender ; by this sign 
the affection was distinguished from 
every form of fever in the feet, al- 
though the animal endeavored to bear 
only upon the heels of the fore ex- 
tremities, and brought the hind legs 
as far under the body as was possible. 

Disease of the knee-joint is far from 
unusual. Mr. Cherry first directed 
attention to this fact ; for, although 

dissection had frequently exhibited the carpal bones united, no one prior 
to Mr. Cherry drew any inference from the obvious indication. 

Mr. Cherry describes the symptoms of the affection to be a stiffened 
protrusion of the fore leg, a long step, and an entire want of flexion in 
the diseased limb. 

The author is unable to corroborate the above observations, possibly 
from his attention only having been directed to a few cases, and those 
not of a very acute character. The writer has, however, remarked, in 
certain instances, a perpetual knuckling over, without deposit in the knee 
or contraction in the tendons being present to account for the assump- 
tion of so uncomfortable an attitude. A want of power to bend the 
leg was noted in a few animals. Such horses either placed the limb 
outside the body when they lay down, or rested upon their sides ; and 
lameness, though always present, was never witnessed in an aggravated 
shape. 

No human lamentation could embody the deep sorrow which the crip- 





THE HEALTHY LEO WHEN THE HORSE IS 
LTINQ DOWN. 



THE NEAREST APPROACH MADE BY THE 
HEEL TO THE ELBOW IN CERTAIN CON- 
DITIONS OF THE KNEE-JOINT. 



pled condition of one leg occasions to the horse. The creature thereby 
is left a clog upon the earth. Its existence is deprived of the power 
which alone made it pleasant. Progression is laborious, and even rest 
is painful. The quadruped, thus disabled, stands motionless on one 

22 



338 LAMENESS. 

spot ; the bead is lowered ; the eyes are dejected ; the breathing is fit- 
ful ; and the entire frame is apparently resigned to a huge sense of 
degradation. All the pride of life is lost. Every trace of animation 
has fled. The animal evidently is, in its own conviction, useless and 
disgraced. A horse in such a state is, indeed, a melancholy spectacle; 
and the feelings of that man who, understanding the image, can con- 
template it unmoved are not to be envied. Still, for how many years 
has such a sight been before the eyes of mankind, without any individual 
possessing the heart to interpret it I 

Surely in all life there exists no other creature so willing to obey — 
so happy in its labor, and so entirely obedient under command — which 
is equally subjected to abuse ! All the horse demands, in requital for its 
manifold services, is food^and shelter: kindness it does not insist upon, 
and even bad usage it submits to. For permission to live, it mildly 
pleads ; and in return for the liberality which merely supports the 
strength, it contentedly resigns its body and relinquishes its intelligence. 
Yet the natural wants are often stinted, although the toil is always bit- 
terly exacted. Surely in all life there exists no other creature equally 
subjected to abuse ! 

The patience of the reader is solicited, while the author notices a 
circumstance connected with the present subject, which has repeatedly 
come under his observation. Nothing can so entirely subdue the spirit 
of a horse as an acute lameness : the suffering must be intense. To a 
distant conception of the agony endured man cannot excite his imagina- 
tion. Still, all of the effect upon the quadruped is not to be attributed 
to that cause. Other diseases are painful, but by them the constitution 
is affected. Lameness, generally, is a local affliction — it is not a general 
involvement ; it leaves the constitution healthy. Yet a high-mettled, or 
even a savage animal, is often quieted as by a charm when the foot is 
disabled. The intractable of the species has, by a sudden visitation of 
this nature, been rendered passive. The existence seems then to be 
given up to misery, and the horse becomes disregai'dful of whoever 
approaches it. On such a sufferer expend but a little time striving to 
convince it of your intent. It is astonishing how quick affliction is to 
comprehend humanity ; and the painful foot is given up to man's desires 
— nay, sometimes it is even advanced for his inspection. 

The writer has applied to the crippled feet of horses certain remedies 
which must have augmented what previously appeared to be the extreme 
of anguish. The author has been painfully conscious of the agony 
attendant on the operation; but to his surprise the animals have not 
flinched, neither have the feet been withdrawn. The quadruped appeared 
to suffer torture with the patience of stoicism, influenced by the aban- 



PUMICE FOOT. 339 

donmeut of utter confidence. The most caustic dressings have been 
freely employed upon the most sensitive part ; yet the creature which, 
when in health, seemed made up of the acutest sensibilities, has sub- 
mitted to the torture with more than mortal fortitude. Once win the 
reliance of timidity, and so beautiful, so entire, so self-nugatory is its 
confidence. 

Little can be said concerning the cure of lameness. The causes are 
various, and, of course, the remedies are as numerous as the provo- 
catives. One thing may, however, be advised : have the shoe taken off 
and the foot searched. Never mind the horn being pared away — many 
a horse limps upon a whole hoof; and it is astonishing upon how small 
a portion of horn an animal may go sound. The seat of the injury 
being ascertained, and so much of the inorganic covering removed as 
may be necessary to afford some relief, always soak the foot in the bath 
before permitting the final use of the knife. The water cleanses the 
part, favors the discharge of pus, lowers the inflammatory action, soft- 
ens the anguish, and destroys the harsh character of the dry horn. This 
last substance, as was observed, by the united action of warmth and 
moisture loses its resistant property. It cuts easily when newly re- 
leased from the bath ; and if the knife be sharp, it may be excised with- 
out any of that dragging sensation which frequently provokes the animal 
to snatch away the member while it is being operated upon. 

PUMICE FOOT. 

Pumice foot is a deformity produced by hard work ; it does certainly 
appear strange, when we regard the beauty and strength united in the 
frame of the horse, that man's barbarity should exceed Nature's inge- 
nuity. A more captivating present — heightening human pleasures, 
lessening human toil — than the horse, it is impossible to imagine; but 
its beauty seems only given for man to deface. A stronger helpmate, 
when speed is considered, it appeared beyond the most excited imagin- 
ation to fancy. But the cruelty of the master found it easy to incapa- 
citate the power so exquisitely endowed. The speed was too slow for 
the eagerness of the rider; the docility was not apt enough for the im- 
patience of the possessor ; in every particular the servant seems to have 
been at fault; and now we hear men gravely lamenting the invention of 
railroads, because these will interfere with the breeding of horses. Let 
us hope the establishment of railroads may supply a deficiency which the 
willingness of flesh and blood was unable to gratify. 

Animals bred on a marshy land, and of a loose habit of body, are 
apt to have weak feet, a specimen of which is given on next page, though 



340 



PUMICE FOOT. 



not of one belonging to the heavy cart-horse. All the delineations in- 
serted in this book are necessarily extreme cases; it is easy for the 
imagination to soften the evil when the mind is impressed with charac- 
teristics of the thing which is depicted ; but not always so free from 
difficulty for an untutored imagination to magnify a reduced portrait. 

A weak foot has a long, slanting pastern ; the hoof is marked by 
rings, showing the irregularity of the horny secretion, and the crust is 
broken in those places where nails have been driven to fasten on the 
shoe, proving the brittle nature of the hoof. 

Such are the outward signs of a weak hoof; but if the person behold- 





A TVEAK FOOT. 



THE SOLE OF A WEAK FOOT. 



ing that sort of foot be in any doubt, let him lift it from the ground and 
inspect the sole. That part will also present peculiarities which can 
hardly fail to attract attention. 

The sole of a weak foot has a thin and irregular margin of crust; a 
flat surface ; well-developed bars, and a healthy frog. Creatures with 
this kind of hoof, when brought to work upon hard roads or London 
stones, are apt to throw the foot down with heedless force at every step, 
and thereby soon to bruise the sole. These horses generally have high 
action, and this circumstance lends additional force to the blow; the 
injury reaches the coffin-bone, which begins to enlarge, and ultimately 
forces the horny sole outward. A pumice foot has the appearance of 
the member represented on the next page, though the reader must not 
anticipate the illustration will accurately indicate every stage of the 
disorder. 

Feet of the above description generally have very weak and brittle 
crusts; but the frog almost invariably is large and prominent; there is 
no kind of foot which so generally exhibits a healthy frog, and the next 
page shows an engraving of the ground surface of a pumice foot, in 
illustration of the fact. 

There are many methods proposed for amending a pumiced foot. 
One is the removal of the shoe; then allowing the deformed foot to 
stand a certain portion of time upon flat flag-stones. But as stamping 
the foot upon stones produced pumice foot, prolonged stress thereon 



PUMICE FOOT. 



341 



does not seem calculated to remove the deformity. A pumice foot is 
not a lump of pudding, to be flattened by simple pressure. In the 
horse's hoof there is bone and flesh to operate upon. Even supposing 
the standing upon flag-stones was beneficial, what immediate result 
could be anticipated from a medicine which was to be administered 
once in three weeks, and for half an hour only at each application ? 





THE SIDE VIEW OF A PUMICED FOOT. 

Showing the swollen or rounded state of the sole, 
with the brittle and uneven condition of the 
crust. 



THE SOLE OF A PUMICED FOOT. 

Displaying a ragged wall, and exhibit- 
ing a very healthy frog and a bulging 



Another artifice is to draw a hot iron over the sole at every shoeing. 
The intention is to stimulate the horn and thus render the sole of greater 
thickness. But that which may affect the secreting membrane of the 
foot may also stimulate the bone to which that membrane is attached. 
Thus the intended remedy may turn out to be a positive aggravation. 





A PUMICED FOOT DIVIDED. 

Showing the altered state of the internal structures. 



A DISH SHOE. 

Employed in cases of severe pumice foot. 



There are also other methods of intended relief, but all are equally 
useless. 

The only means of real benefit lies in the treatment of the hoof and 
in the mode of shoeing. For the last, select what is denominated a 
"dish" shoe; that is, a bar shoe, having the web hollowed out like to 
the sides of a pie-dish. The only part of this shoe which touches the 
ground is the rim of the inner circle. 

This kind of shoe will protect the bulging sole, and if shod with 
leather, the protection will be greater, though the shoe will, in that 
case, be more diflBcult to retain. The flat surface at the posterior part 
of the shoe presents a point for the bearing of the frog, which can 



342 SANDCRACK. 

afford almost any amount of pressure. The many nail holes made 
around the shoe denote the difficulty the smith encounters when fixing 
a protection of this sort upon the pumiced hoof. The crust of the foot 
is always brittle, and the weight of iron employed being greater than 
usual requires an extra number of nails to fasten it securely. The 
smith consequently, in such cases, has no choice. He must drive a nail 
wherever he can find the horn which will sustain one. 

With regard to the horn, keep that continually dressed with equal 
parts of animal glycerin and tar. Moisten the hoof with this mixture 
twice a day. No improvement may be remarked in a week ; but in two 
or three months the crust will have become perceptibly less brittle, and 
the labor of the smith will be rendered far less perplexing. For the 
abnormal condition of the foot — that is permanent and nothing can be 
done beyond employing such artifices as are calculated to relieve the 
affliction. 

' SANDCRACK. 

Any cause which weakens the body of the horse by interfering with 
the health of its secretions may induce sandcrack. Treading for any 
length of time upon ground from which all moisture is absent, by render- 
ing the horn hard or dry, may cause the hoof to be brittle and give rise 
to sandcrack. However, this last provocative seldom operates in this 
country; when sandcrack occurs in an English horse, it is generally 
generated by debility, which leads to the secretion of faulty horn. So 
far, however, is this from being the prevailing opinion, and so little 
sympathy does the horse receive in its diseases, that the endeavor, in- 
deed the custom, of all veterinary surgeons is to continue at work the 
horse having a division running completely through the hoof. 

Sandcracks are of two sorts. Quarter crack, which chiefly happens 
among the lighter breed of animals; toe crack, which occurs prin- 
cipally with cart-horses, and mostly with those which work between the 
shafts. 

Quarter sandcrack is of the least importance of the two. It is oftenest 
seen upon the inner quarter of the hoof, where the horn, being thinnest, 
is most subjected to motion. Usually it commences at the coronet, 
extending to the sole, and also to the sensitive laminae. 

A horse thus affected should be thrown up ; should be placed in a 
large, loose box, and receive soft, nutritious food, such as boiled oats, 
boiled linseed, and scalded hay. A little green-meat occasionally should 
be allowed to regulate the bowels ; greased swabs should be placed over 
the hoof and under the sole. A bar shoe should be worn upon the affected 



SANDCRACK. 



343 




QDARTER SANDCRACK. 

Generally met with, in fast 
horses, \ipon the inner 
side of the fore foot. 



foot. This treatment should be continued till the horse has recovered 
from its debility. 

With regard to the crack itself, take a iine knife and gradually scrape 
off the sharp edges till the division assumes the 
appearance of a groove. If the crack does not 
reach through to the flesh, no fear need be enter- 
tained concerning the lower edges of the crack, 
because the horn secreted by the laminae is of a soft 
nature, and will most readily yield. Besides, par- 
ing the outer horn often prevents the inner layer 
being cracked by the motion of the foot; this being 
done, should the division not descend the entire 
length of the hoof, or reach from the ground to the 
coronet, with a firing-iron, heated to redness, draw a line at each ex- 
tremity of the fissure. The line need not be made so deep as will occa- 
sion pain ; it is only necessary that the mark should go through the 
hard outer crust of the foot to prevent extension of the division. 

Should the separation be the whole way down the hoof, it is as well 
to adopt either the plan followed by the late Mr. Read, or the mode 
pursued by Mr. Woodger, the clever practical veterinarian, well known 
in Paddington. Mr. Read used to make a semicircular line near the 
coronet with the hot iron : Mr. Woodger has for years been accustomed 
to draw lines from the coronet to the crack in the shape of a V, with 
the same instrument. Both methods have a like intention, namely, to 
cut off the coronet from the inferior portion of the hoof, thereby pre- 
venting the movements of the foot from operating upon the newly 
secreted horn. However, Mr. Woodger's plan being the easiest, and 
quite as effective as that of the late Mr. Read, is certainly the best. 





A PARTIAL QUARTER SANDCRACK DRESSED 
AND SHOD. 



THE METHODS OP ERADICATING A SANDCRACK: 
EITHER THE SEMICIRCDLAR OR THE ANGULAR 
LINES ARE EQUALLY EFFECTIVE. 



Sandcrack, when it occurs at the toe, usually extends the entire length 
of the foot, and leaves a portion of bleeding flesh exposed. The laminte, 
being opened to the stimulating effects of the air, are very apt to throw 
out a crop of luxuriant granulations. These, of course, are pinched 
between the two sides of the division. They bleed freely ; often, from 



344 



SAND CRACK. 




A FOOT WITH TOE SANDCRACK. 

Illustrating the mode of shoeing 
with clips, and of easing oft" at 
the toe ; also exemplifying the 
manner of paring down the 
hoof, and showing the part 
where granulations are likely 
to appear. 



the pressure, they turn black, and then smell abominably. The putrid 
action, having once commenced, is apt to extend, and portions of the 
coffin-bone are likely to exfoliate. 

Now to prevent this, so soon as the horse is 
brought in with a saudcrack, wash the part 
thoroughly with the chloride of zinc lotion, 
one grain to the ounce of water. The bleed- 
ing having ceased, j^ai'e down the outward 
edges of the separation, and put on a bar shoe, 
eased off at the toe, and with a clip on either 
side of the division. If the injury has not ex- 
tended the length of the hoof, you must make 
a line at each extremity with a heated iron, as 
in quarter crack, than which it is also of more 
consequence that the coronet should be isolated ; 
because the external horn being thickest at the 
toe, is the more likely by its movements to be 
influential upon the new and plastic horn of the 
coronet. 
Should, however, the granulations have appeared, and the horse, with 
appetite lost and the head dejected, the pulse thumping and the injured 
foot held in the air, appear the picture of a living misery, first cleanse 
the wound thoroughly with the chloride of zinc lotion. Then apply a 
firing-iron, of a black heat, to the hoof, near to the crack. The inten- 
tion, in doing this, is to warm and thus to soften the horn. This effect 
being accomplished, pare down or scoop off the edges — using the heated 
iron again, if necessary. Do all this leisurely, and with every consider- 
ation for the animal, which endures intense agony; for anything like 
violence or impatience tells fearfully upon the sufferer's system. 

The horn being lowered, take a very sharp drawing-knife, and, with 
one movement of the wrist, excise the granulation. Set down the foot, 
and leave it to bleed ; the loss of blood will lower the inflammation and 
will benefit the internal parts. Give a little green-meat to cool the sys- 
tem and act upon the bowels. Then, with the constant use of the lotion, 
enough has been done for one day. 

The following morning you may again apply the lotion, and con- 
tinue to use it afterward thrice daily. Any further lowering may 
also be accomplished to the edges of the crack, as well as the coronal 
portion of the horn be separated from the lower part of the hoof, by 
means of lines drawn as before illustrated. 

If the horse must go to work, remember, it should not be in the shafts, 
upon long journeys, or with a heavy load behind it. Before the animal 



FALSE QUARTER. 



345 




quits the stable, lay a piece of tow saturated with the lotion within the 
crack, and bind that in with a wax-end ; tie a strip of cloth over all ; 
give this bandage a coating of tar ; and, when the 
horse returns, be sure to inspect the part. Should any 
grit have penetrated, wash it out with the lotion, and 
do not begrudge a minute or two to remove that which, 
if allowed to remain, may cause the animal much ad- 
ditional anguish. Then give the suffering creature a 
nice, deep bed, some scalded hay, and a mash made of 
bruised oats, into which has been thrown a handful 
each of linseed and of crushed beans ; moisten these 
last constituents with the water drawn from the scalded 
hay, and, if the horse should not appear hungry, throw 
among the hay half a handful of common salt. 

The poor man may have some excuse for working an animal with 
sandcrack ; such a person cannot afford to keep the horse in idleness for 
the months which the cure will occupy. But the worst cases of this kind 
the author ever beheld have always been in quadrupeds belonging to 
wealthy tradesmen, who had ample means to gratify their desires, but 
wanted the heart to feel for mute affliction. 



A HORSE S FOOT DRESSED 
FOR TOE SANDCRACK. 

Showing the way in 
whicll it should lie 
bounJ up when work 
is imperative. 



FALSE QUARTER. 

False quarter is the partial absence of the outer and harder portion 
of the hoof; the consequence is, that the sensitive laminae, in the seat 
of the false quarter, are only protected by their own soft or spongy horn. 
This is frequently insufficient to save the foot from severe accident ; it is 
apt to crack, being strained by the motion of the hoof. The fleshy parts 
are then exposed ; bleeding ensues, and fungoid granulations sometimes 
spring up ; these are often pinched by the two sides of the divided horn, 
between which they protrude. When such occurs, the treatment should 
be the same as that recommended for sandcrack. 





FALSE QUARTER, OR A DEFICIENCT OF 
THE OUTER WALL. 



THE ONLY POSSIBLE RELIEF FOE FALSE 
QUARTER. 



No art can cure a false quarter ; a portion of the coronary substance 
has been lost, and no medicine can restore it. All that can be done is 



346 



SEEDY TOE. 



to mitigate the suifering ; a bar shoe with a clip at the toe may be used, 
the beariug being taken oflf at the seat of false quarter. The portion of 
crust near to the weakened part should be beveled off, so as to join the 
soft horn with an insensible edge. Some persons recommend a mixture 
of pitch, tar, and rosin to be poured over the exposed quarter ; the 
author has not found this compound to answer ; it peels and breaks off 
upon the horse being put in motion. A piece of gutta-percha, of pro- 
portionate thickness, fastened over the place, has sometimes remained 
on for a week, and answered to admiration. 



SEEDY TOE. 

It appears not to have occurred to writers upon veterinary subjects 
that the horse, which breathes but to work — for the instant its ability to 
toil ceases the knacker becomes its possessor — that an animal which 
exists under so severe a law, should occasionally be "used up ;" that a 
creature which is sold from master to master, all of whom become pur- 
chasers with a view only to " the work" each can get out of the " thews 
and muscles," should occasionally be debilitated to that stage which 
might interfere with the healthiness of its secretions, is a notion that 
seems to have been beyond the reach of those writers who have hitherto 
composed books upon the equine race. A separa- 
tion between the union of the two layers of horn 
which compose the crust has been long known ; it 
has been much thought about, and the fancy has been 
somewhat racked to account for its origin. Still, 
although the human physician has recorded the brit- 
tle state and abnormal condition of man's nails in 
peculiar stages of disease, no one seems thence to 
have argued that a certain condition of body might 
possibly affect the hoofs of our stabled servant. 

The method of cure which the author adopted, led thereto by the 
admirable lectures of Mr. Spooner, and the success it met, soon made 
apparent the fact of its origin ; but, before describing this, it may be as 
well to inform the reader in what consists a seedy state of the horse's 
toe. 

The wall of the foot is composed of two layers — the outer one, the 
hardest, the darkest, and the thinnest, is secreted by the coronet ; the 
inner layer, the softest, thickest, and most light in color, is derived from 
the sensitive larainge. These different kinds of horn, in a healthy state, 
unite one with the other, so that the two apparently form one substance. 
The junction makes a thick, elastic, and strong body, whereto an iron 




SECTION OF A horse's FOOT 
AFFECTED WITH SEEDY 
TOE. 



SEEDY TOE. 



34T 




THE APPEARANCE PRE- 
SENTED BT SEEDY TOE 
WHEN THE SHOE IS 
EEMOVED, AND THE 
GROUND SURFACE OF 
THE WALL IS INSPECT- 



Once every 



shoe can be safely nailed, and whereon the enormous bulk of the horse's 
frame may with safety rest. 

But when overwork affects the natural functions of the body, the two 
kinds of horn do not unite ; their division invariably 
begins at the toe, as it always commences in the nail of 
the human being at the outer margin. If the seedy toe 
be tapped or gently struck, it emits a hollow sound ; 
and if the shoe be removed, there will be found a va- 
cant space between the two layers of horn ; into this 
space a nail, a piece of broom, or a straw is commonly 
pushed, to ascertain the depth of the lesion. 

Mr. Spooner advised that the whole of the detached 
horn should be cut away. The writer, however, insists 
that the horse should be thrown up — not turned out to 
grass, but placed in an airy, loose box, and liberally 
fed, or otherwise so treated as its condition may require 
fortnight, for two months, the smith should inspect the 
foot, and should cut away so much of the outer wall as 
may still be disunited. It commonly takes three or 
four months for the hoof to grow down or to become 
perfect; and rest, with liberal feeding, during this time, 
is sufficient to renovate an exhausted frame. A new 
and sound covering for the hoof of the invigorated 
horse is secreted by the expiration of the period named ; 
nor has it reached the knowledge of the writer that any 
animal, after such a mode of treatment, has been liable 
to a second attack. 

The ordinary method of cure is to cut away the hoof; then, having 
nailed a shoe on, to send the disfigured horse to resume labor. Under 
this form of treatment, the seedy division, once confined to the toe, has 
extended to the quarters ; the structure of the hoof being destroyed, the 
horn was unfitted for its purposes. The weight of the body forced the 
sensitive laminae from the coronary secretion, and the foot, after long 
treatment, became a deformity. The author has never beheld so lament- 
able a termination ; but it is described by writers upon seedy toe with a 
complacency which seems to regard so grievous a result as the natural 
consequence of an intractable disorder. 




THE APPEARANCE OF 
THE HOOF AFTER THE 
SEEDY TOE HAS BEEN 
EEMOVED WITH THE 
KNIFE. 



348 



TREAD AND OVERREACH. 



TREAD AND OVERREACH. 

Tread is a very rare occurrence with light horses ; the author has met 
with but one instance. Then, from the horse being a good stepper, and 
from the accident happening toward the end of a long journey, as well 
as from certain indications of the wound itself, it was conjectured to have 
occurred in the manner depicted below. 





TREAD IN LIGHT HORSES. 

The hind foot, fi-om fatigue, not being removed 
soon enough, is wounded by the heel of the 
fore shoe being placed upon its coronet. 



TREAD UPON THE HIND FOOT 
OP CART-HORSES. 

The animal become unsteady from exhaustion; 
the feet cross, and a wound results. 



However, among cart-horses such a form of injury is more frequent ; 
these poor animals have to drag heavy loads, at a slow pace, it is true, 
but to long distances ; they are generally badly fed. Farmers' horses, 
especially during the spring and summer months, being supported upon 
green-meat, the watery nourishment impoverishes the blood, and the 
exhausting labor undermines the system. Often the load has to be taken 
down hill, toward the end of a tedious journey ; the whole burden then 
rests upon the shafts, and the wretched horse which is between them 
rocks under the weight like a drunken man. The legs cross, till at last 
the calkin belonging to the shoe of one hind foot tears away a large lump 
of the opposite coronet. A piece of flesh is commonly left upon the 
ground ; the hemorrhage is extreme, and the wagon is brought to a 
stand. 

The worst case of the kind the writer ever saw occurred after the pre- 
ceding fashion ; and the carter — who, by-the-by, was proprietor of the 
sufferer — left the poor horse in a forge, giving orders that the smith was 
to do what he could, or to have it killed, as he pleased. The smith con- 
sulted the writer, and he treated the wound after the method recom- 
mended for open joint, or by bathing it thrice daily with the solution of 
chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. In a week a large 
slough took place ; this opened the coffin-joint, and left a portion of the 
extensor pedis tendon hanging from the orifice. The treatment was 
continued ; the lameness, which at first was excessive, gradually grew 




CORNS. 349 

less ; the piece of tendon sloughed out, and the wound began to heal. 
It had closed when the animal was fetched away by the owner ; but the 
writer was unable afterward to learn whether false quarter ensued upon 
the injury. This, from the extent of the wound, the writer would con- 
jecture to have been probable ; indeed, false quarter and quittor are the 
general consequences of severe tread. 

Overreach is confined to fast horses ; it happens to those which are 
good steppers. When tired, the feet are apt to be moved irregularly ; 
thus, one foot is often in its place before the other has 
been lifted ; the result is, that the inner part of the 
hind foot strikes the outer side of the fore coronet. 
A wound, and frequently a severe one, is the conse- 
quence. False quarter or quittor is likely to ensue ; 
the treatment must be the same as was before de- 
scribed. No poultices are required ; these only add 
to the weight of the injured limb, and augment the overreach occurrixg 
distress of the animal. No harsh measures should be ti™'^o^j. light horses' 
allowed ; the horse has enough to bear; a slough has 
to take place. This is a severe tax upon the strength ; all the good 
food and prepared water the animal can consume will not now be thrown 
away ; the treatment is materially shortened by the nourishment being 
sustaining of its kind, and liberal in quantity; but the injury should be 
treated only with the knife, and the chloride of zinc lotion described in 
the course of this article. 

CORNS. 

Corns are of four kinds — the old, the new, the sappy, and the suppu- 
rating ; all are caused by bruises to the sensitive sole. The shoe is the 
passive agent in their production, when they occur in large, fleshy feet ; 
the thick, unyielding, horny sole is the passive agent, when they are 
present in contracted feet. The coffin-bone, in both cases, is the active 
agent ; the wings, or posterior portions of this bone, project backward 
nearly as far as the bars, or immediately over the seat of corn. When 
the horse is in motion, the coffin-bone can never remain still ; it rises, or 
rather the wings are drawn upward by the flexor tendon, every time the 
foot is lifted from the earth, and sinks, because of the weight cast upon 
it, every time the foot touches the ground. The wings of the bone, thus 
in constant action, when the horny sole is weak, often descend upon the 
fleshy sole, and bruise that substance upon the iron shoe ; what is called 
a corn is the consequence. In contracted feet, where the sole is high, 
thick, and resistant, the horny sole does not descend, even when the 
immense weight of the horse's body rests upon it. It remains firm and 



350 



CORNS. 



fixed during every action of the animal — not so, however, the cofiBn-bone, 
which is in continuous motion. The result, of course, is, the imposed 
burden forces the wings of the coffin-bone downward. The horny sole 




DIAGRAM 

Showing the position of the hindermost 
part of the coffin-bone when in a pae- 
fiive state; also portraying the shoe in 
the fleshy or flat foot. 




Illustrating the relative positions of the 
wings of the coffin-bone, and the thick, 
concave, horny sole of the contracted 
foot when not in motion. 



will not yield, and the fleshy sole is therefore bruised between the wings 
of the coffin-bone and the horn bottom of the hoof ; a corn is thereby 
established. 

Corns in a horse do not answer to those excrescences found upon the 
feet of man ; being bruises, they consist of effusion in every instance. 
The effusion may either be of blood or of serum ; blood constitutes the 
old and the new corn, serum gives rise to the sappy corn. The suppu- 
rative corn is an after-consequence of either of those just named ; when 
the effusion has been so large as to defy absorption, a new action is 
started up — pus is secreted, and a suppurative corn is then created. 

An old corn is the least serious, especially when it is easily cut away; 
it appears as a black mark upon the surface of the horny sole, and is 
little thought of when it can be speedily removed by the knife, because 
this shows the horse had a corn, but at present is free from such an 
annoyance. When, however, a superficial corn cannot be scooped out 





THE SITUATION AND ASPECT 
OF AN OLD CORN UPON A 
LARGE, FLAT FOOT. 



THE DEEPLY-SEATED AND SMALL, 
SCARLET SPOT WHICH DECLARES 
THE PRESENCE OF A NEW CORN. 



with the drawing-knife, but becomes brighter and brighter as more and 
more horn is cut away, till it assumes the scarlet aspect of a new corn, 



CORNS. 351 

the matter is rather grave, because it denotes the horse to have had, and 
not to have been free from, corns daring the growth of the present sole. 

The new corn, as has been just intimated, consists of a portion of 
blood elfused into the pores of the horn, and is of a bright-scarlet color. 
The size is of some consequence, as it best intimates the extent of the 
injury ; if the stain be small and deep seated, it is of least moment. 

The sappy corn is the consequence of a more gentle bruise, when serum 
and lymph only are effused — the horn being thereby merely rendered 
moist, not discolored. This species of corn is not very common, and by 
proper shoeing is readily removed. 

The suppurating corn is the worst of all; it engenders heat in the 
foot, and causes excessive lameness ; it creates all that anguish, a shad- 
owy taste of which the human being endures when pus is confined beneath 
the substance of the finger-nail. The foot cannot be put to the ground ; 
the arteries of the pastern throb forcibly; the countenance is dejected ; 
and every symptom of acute suffering in a large body is exhibited. 

Corns, which in man are found on the lower members, in the horse 
are generally witnessed only upon the fore feet. The writer has rarely 
seen an instance of their presence behind ; but in whichever foot they 
appear, they must be the production of an instant, though, probably, 
the suppurative may be an exception ; yet from these always being sud- 
denly observed, even this species are said to be of instantaneous origin. 
A horse, when progressing, makes a false step ; a sanguineous or sappy 
corn is by that faulty action established. The same horse may trot 
home perfectly sound, and be put into the stable for the night a healthy 
animal; but on the following morning it may be discovered standing on 
three legs. Pus may, in the interval, have been secreted, and the corn 
may have assumed the suppurative character. 

The manner to examine for corn is, in the first place, to mark the age 
of the horse ; then observe if, in the trot, 
either leg is favored. The animal being 
young, splint is the common cause of un- 
even action; if old, corns are more gener- 
ally expected; the horse is brought to a 
stand and the smith sent for. The man 
raises the fore foot, and, taking a portion 
of crust and sole between the teeth of the 
pincers, gradually increases the pressure; 
he thus proceeds till he has by successive '^^^ ^°^^ o^ ^^e horse's foot beinq 

' "' TESTED FOR CORNS. 

trials squeezed the sole all round. If the 

leg, while undergoing the operation, be withdrawn near either of the 

nails, the ideas take a different direction to that of corn ; but if the foot 




352 CORNS. 

be held steady, the seat of corn is lastly squeezed. Should no flinching 
be witnessed, the examination is not esteemed satisfactory until the smith 
has, with a small drawing-knife, denominated a searcher, cut away a por- 
tion of the sole at the seat of corn. 

The sensibility will be extreme should suppurating corn be present; 
in that case the sole must be gradually removed until the pus is released. 
That being done, the shoe should be taken off and the foot put into a 
bran poultice. By this means the horn will be rendered more soft and 
the wound cleansed. The smith, on the following day, must again cut 
the foot, every portion of detached horn being very carefully excised. 

The hoi'n is itself a secretion, and, in a healthy state, is intimately 
united with the source of its origin. When, however, pus is effused, 
this always lies between the secreting membrane and the horn, which 
has been already secreted. The horn so displaced by the presence of a 
foreign substance is called under-run or detached; and all horn, so 
under-run or detached, must be removed. When this operation is prop- 
erly performed, all signs of lameness will have generally disappeared. 
It is usual, however, to tack the old shoe on again ; and having dressed 
the injury with chloride of zinc and water — one grain to the ounce — 
there remains only to examine the foot from time to time till new horn 
covers the surface ; merely taking precaution for the present to shield 
the wound with a little tow, fastened in its place by a couple of cross 
splints. 

When sanguineous or sappy corns are found, the method is, firstly to 
thin the sole, so as to render it pliable, especially over the seat of corn. 
Should a sappy corn have rendered the horn moist for any space, or 
should the discoloration caused by sanguineous corn be of any size, it 
is as well always to open the center of the part indicated : no matter 
should the cut release only a small quantity of serum or a little blood. 
Take away a small portion of horn ; pare the sole till it yield to the 
pressure of the thumb. When such a proceeding is necessary, the bars 
may be entirely removed, and the wounds should be covered with some 
tar spread upon a pledget of fine tow. As soon as the orifice is pro- 
tected by new horn, the hoi'se may be shod with a leathern sole and 
returned to its proprietor. 

Such a course would occupy little time — a week at most. Yet the 
great majority of horse proprietors appear to have "flinty hearts," as 
nearly all of them begrudge the necessary day of rest to the maimed 
animal which has been injured in their employment. The cry, where 
the horse is concerned, is "toil, toil!" The veterinary surgeon is often 
asked "if absolute rest is imperative." He is frequently solicited to 
patch up the poor animal, so that it may do a little work. As day after 




CORNS. 353 

day passes onward, the tone becomes more and more authoritative. The 
horse is at last too often demanded from the hospital, and taken to re- 
sume ordinary labor before the injury is effaced. Should no evil effect 
ensue on such a culpable want of caution, the proprietor is apt to 
chuckle over his daring with another's sufferings, and to blame the 
science which would not incur risk, even to propitiate an employer. 

Corn is not generally reckoned unsoundness. If a horse be lame 
from corn, the lameness renders the horse unsound; but the corn does 
not. Such is the beauty of horse logic when pronounced in a court of 
justice! A corn may suppurate, or may provoke lameness at any 
moment. Still the corn, in the bleared eye of the law, is no sufficient 
objection to the purchase of a horse. The 
suppurated corn may lead to quittor — still, 
corn is not legal unsoundness. It is a pity 
such is the case, since it leads men to neglect 
that which is removable. When the sole is 
high, the shoe should always be accompanied 
by a leathern sole. Liquid stopping should be 
poured into the open space at the back of the the posterior op a horse's 

'■ ^ '■ . foot shod with leather. 

foot; and at every time of shoeing, the smith 

Tho central angnlar mark indi- 

should pare the sole quite thin, even until drops cates the place into which the 
of blood bedew the surface of the horn. When poured. 
corns appear in flat or fleshy feet, as shoeing 

time comes round, only have the very ragged portions of the frog taken 
away. Have the web of the shoe narrowed so as to remove all chance 
of pressure against the iron. Lower the heels of the shoe, or try a bar 
shoe with the bearing taken off over the seat of corn ; should that.not 
answer, next put on a three-quarter shoe : many horses, however, will 
go sound in tips, that cannot endure any other sort of protection to the 
foot. By resort to one or the other of these measures, that injury, 
which in the learned eye of the law is of no consequence, but which, 
nevertheless, may lead to terrible lameness, or even lay the foundation 
for a quittor, may be greatly mitigated. 

Bruise of the sole is an accident leading to effusion of blood — so far 
it resembles corn; but it is dissimilar in not occurring on a part subject 
to the same degree of motion, and, therefore, is not so severe in the con- 
sequences to which it leads. It is caused by treading on a stone, and 
is removed by paring off the horn which has been discolored or lies 
immediately beneath the injury. It seldom leads to great lameness or 
gives rise to serious results. It is treated after the manner directed for 
corn; but it is always advisable to shoe once, with leather, the horse 
which has suffered from bruise of the sole. The difference between 

23 



354 



Q U I T T R. 



corn and bruise of the sole is simply this : the first is an injury pro- 
duced by a cause which is always within the control of the proprietor, 
and which, if neglected, is likely to lead to the most disastrous mala- 
dies ; the last is purely an accident, to which any horse at any time is 
liable, and with ordinary care is not likely to give rise to any serious 
consequences. 

Prick of the foot is an injury incurred while the horse is being shod. 
There are two sorts of this accident : one, when the nail penetrates the 
fleshy substance of the sensitive laminae and draws blood ; the other 
is when a nail is driven too fine, or among the soft horn which lines the 
interior of the hoof, and consequently lies near to the sensitive lamina. 
The first is of the more immediate importance ; but the last may be 
equally serious in its effect. As the horse works, the strain upon the 
shoe bends the nail fixed into soft horn. It thus is made to press upon 
the sensitive laminae, and may provoke suppuration. 

To detect whether the smith is at fault, the foot should be first 
squeezed between the pincers as for common 
corn ; then have the nails withdrawn one by 
one, and mark each as it is removed. If one 
appears moist or wet, have the hole of that nail 
freely opened. Let the shoe be replaced, leav- 
ing that nail out. Put a little tow, covered 
with tar, over the wound, and shoe with leather. 
If, however, lameness should still be present, 
the shoe must again be taken off and the in- 
jury treated as recommended for suppurating 
corn. 

Blame the smith who pricks a horse and con- 
ceals the fact ; punish the fellow to the extent 
of your power. But the man who pricks a foot 
and acquaints you with the circumstance, de- 
serves civility. The last enables you to take proper measures, such as 
paring out, etc., and thereby you avoid all unpleasantness. The first 
braves chances with your living property, and deserves to suffer if the 
hazard go against him. 




PRICK OF THE FOOT AND BRUISE 
OF THE SOLE. 

The smaller opening represents 
prick of the foot : the larger 
space indicates bruise of the 
sole. The extent to which 
the horn may he removed, in 
the generality of cases, is also 
indicated. 



QUITTOR. 



This is a severe and painful disease. Many a horse is, at the present 
moment, working with a suppurative wound above the hoof, within the 
interior of which run numerous sinuses. The police arrest the driver 
of the horse when the condition is so bad as permits the collar to wring 



QUITTOR. 355 

the shoulders. Of all other shapes of misery they seem ignorant. Ani- 
mals limp over the stones, every step being an agony; but the police- 
men look on at such pictures with placid countenances. Horses are 
driven at night in a state of glanders which renders them dangerous to 
mankind; yet no officer thinks of looking at the head of an animal for 
the sign of suffering or the warning of public peril. Creatures, in every 
stage of misery, may be seen openly progressing along the streets of the 
metropolis ; but so the shoulders be sound, the brute who goads them 
forward performs his office with impunity. Still, it is something gained, 
that the law has recognized the want of man's absolute power over the 
feelings of those creatures intrusted to his care. Let us hope, as knowl- 
edge extends, the legal perceptions will be quickened. It is partly with 
this view that the present "illustrated work" is published. 

ftuittor is a terrible disorder. To comprehend thoroughly the pain 
which accompanies it, the reader must understand the structures through 
which it has to penetrate, and the substances it has to absorb. All parts 
are slowly acted upon in proportion as they are lowly organized. Car- 
tilage is the structure into the composition of which no blood-vessels 
enter. Next to cartilage is bone, which, though supplied with vessels, 
is, on account of its mixture with inorganic matter, exposed only to 
slow decay, and the exfoliation of which is effected at a vast expense to 
the vital energy. These substances mainly compose the foot of the 
horse. In addition, there is ligament, almost as slowly acted upon as 
bone; disease in which substance is accompanied by the greatest 
anguish. Horn is an external protection ; but that material, though 
an animal secretion, is strictly inorganic : when cut it does not occasion 
pain — neither does it bleed. If a portion of horn should press upon 
the flesh it must be removed by the knife ; for, unlike the more highly- 
gifted structures, there is no chance of its being absorbed. 

The hoof, therefore, being the external covering to the foot of the 
horse, and not being liable to the same action as organic secretions, 
serves to confine pus or matter when generated within its substance. 
Pus could work through the largest organized body ; but it cannot 
escape through the thinnest layer of horn. Now, most of the other 
substances which enter into the composition of the horse's foot are such 
as slowly decay ; but those parts which slowly decay being without 
sensation during health, occasion the most extreme agony when diseased. 

The cause of quittor always is confined pus or matter, which, in its 
effort to escape, absorbs and forms sinuses in various directions within 
the sensitive substances of the hoof. In the hind feet of cart-horses 
quittor generally commences at the coronet; the coronet is wounded or 
bruised by the large calkins or pieces of iron turned up at the back of 



356 QUITTOR. 

the hind shoes, which are universally worn by animals of heavy draught. 
Any one who has punctured or cut the coronet of a dead horse knows 
this structure is as difficult to penetrate and as hard to divide as carti- 
lage itself; the consequence of an injury to such a part is, the bruise 
produces death of some deep-seated portion of the compact coronet. 
Nature, after her own fashion, proceeds to cast off that which is with- 
out vitality, or, in other words, she divides the dead from the living tis- 
sues by a line of suppuration ; but the matter thus located cannot 
readily escape through the harsh material of the horse's coronet. It is 
confined and becomes corrupt, while the constant motion of the foot 
and the higher organization of the secreting membrane of the horn in- 
clines the pus to take a downward direction. However, it is more dif- 
ficult for pus to pierce the horny sole than to penetrate the coronet ; so 
the effort is renewed above; numerous pipes or sinuses are thus formed 
upon the sensitive laminae; the fleshy sole is often under-run, and this 
mischief goes on until the coronet, which becomes of enormous size, at 
last yields to the increasing evil. 

Another cause is pricking the sensitive part of the foot with a nail 
during shoeing ; the wound generates pus, the pus cannot penetrate the 
horn, and the motion of the coffin-bone causes it to absorb upward, 
until after some time it breaks forth at the coronet. 





Which supposed the outward covering of the The covering of the coronet and horny crust 

coronet and the horny wall of the hoof supposed to be absent, and exposing the 

removed, to expose the ravages of quittor, manner in which any suppurating injury 

when commencing in the coronet of a heavy to the sole of the foot ultimately causes a 

horse. • wound above the hoof. 

Another cause is corn ; the horse's corn is nothing more than a bruise ; 
the bruise, in some instances, is severe, and takes on the suppurative 
action. The pus, as before, is confined, and by the motion of the coffin- 
bone it is propelled upward till it breaks forth at the coronet, which, as 
before, enlarges to deformity; in short, any injury done to the sole of 
the foot or to the coronet above it may produce quittor. 

The leading sign of quittor, before it breaks, is a large swelling at 
the coronet, attended with heat and excessive lameness. In cart-horses, 
it is usually present in the hind feet ; but in the lighter species it more 
frequently occurs in the fore feet. It generally appears upon the inner 



Q U I T T R. 



35t 



side of the hoof, though, of course, it has often been witnessed upon 
the outer coronet. Quittor becomes a huge swelling before it breaks. 
The amount of tumefaction symbolizes the amount of anguish; it is, 
indeed, a most painful disorder. 





A QUITTOR, AS IT DENOTES ITS EXISTENCE 
BEFORE THE PUS ABSORBS ITS WAX 
THROUGH THE CORONET. 



A QUITTOR, AFTER THE PUS HAS FOUND AN 
EXIT AT THE CORONET. 



m.y 



The animal, after the pus has found vent, becomes easier; fever 
departs ; the appetite returns, and the enlargement greatly diminishes. 

In the cure of a quittor, all depend upon the time during which the 
disease has been allowed to exist; if brought under notice at first, 
and from an examination a belief is confirmed that the sinuses are 
wholly superficial, no treatment is comparable to the plan of slitting 
them up, the method of doing which will be described in a subsequent 
chapter ; this at once affords relief. The horse, which was limping 
lame, upon getting up puts the foot fearlessly to the ground, and trots 
sound. 

If we have reason to believe the matter has burrowed inwardly, and 
that one or more sinuses have penetrated the carti- 
lages and threaten the deeper-seated parts, still we 
sliould settle with the knife all those pipes which, 
are superficial. This gives a better view of the 
structures supposed to be diseased ; then, if among 
the matter thrown out by the healing wounds there 
is seen a speck or two of fluid, which, being gelatin- 
ous and transparent, looks dark among the opaque, 
creamy pus, be sure there remains further work to be 
accomplished. 

Cut a small twig from the stable broom; this is 
pliable, and, where a sinus is concerned, makes the 
best possible probe. With a knife, render it perfectly clean, as well as 
round or blunt at one end ; then, while an assistant holds up the foot, 
insert it in the center of the dark fluid. If it should not at first detect 
an opening, you must not give up the trial; the probe must be moved 
about, and even a smaller one procured. A sinus does exist; of that 
you have positive proof; the pipe being found, mix some powdered 



v\' 



^#if'#^::S 



An attempt to depict the 
smaU size of the trans- 
]7:irent fluid, indicating 
the existence of a sinus, 
■nhcn it ajipears at the 
wound whence issues 
tlie stream of thick and 
creamy pus. 



358 CANKER. 

corrosive sublimate with three times its bullc of flour ; then wet the probe ; 
dip the probe into the jiowder and afterward insert it into the sinus. 
Do this several times till you feel certain that every portion of the pipe 
is brought in contact with the caustic. 

The horse, subsequently, will become very dull ; the foot will gi*ow 
very painful : thus it will continue for two days. About the third day, 
a white, curd-like matter is discharged from the orifice. The lameness 
disappears, and the spirits are regained. 

It is against our inclination to publish such directions ; but the author 
has knowledge of no gentler or more speedy measure. The better plan 
for the gentleman who is tender of his servants' feelings, and infinitely 
the cheaper for the person who is regardful of his pocket, is to have 
every animal inspected by a qualified veterinary surgeon so soon as it 
displays acute lameness. Were such the practice, corn, prick of the foot, 
or wound of the coronet need not run on to quittor. That is an affec- 
tion which loudly pronounces man to utterly disregard the welfare of his 
most willing slave. It always originates in neglect. It always requires 
time for its development. It springs from that idle and silly maxim 
which, when a horse falls lame, treats the circumstance as though the 
honest animal were shamming, and teaches a hard-hearted proprietor to 
work the poor drudge sound again. 

CANKER. 

Thrush is a disease that causes a certain liquid to be secreted which 
has the property of decomposing the horn. Canker is a disease which 
not only is attended with a liquid having a like property, but the last- • 
named affection also causes fungoid horn to be secreted. Canker, there- 
fore, appears to be an aggravation of thrush ; and anybody who has 
been much among the animals of the poorer classes may have observed 
these diseases lapse into each other : thrush will, through neglect, become 
canker. 

Thrush appears to be the commencement of the disorganization of the 
food. Canker is the total perversion of the secreting powers belonging 
to the same organ. In thrush, a foul humor having a corruptive prop- 
erty is poured forth. In canker, something is superadded to this. The 
horn itself is sent forth in large quantity as a soft, unhealthy material, 
totally divested of elasticity and devoid of all healthy resistance. 

Any animal, being exposed to the exciting cause, may exhibit thrush ; 
but, before canker seems capable of being produced, poor living must 
have undermined the constitution. Old horses— pensioners, as they are 
humanely termed — when turned out to grass, frequently have canker, 



CANKER. 359 

which otherwise should be confined to the animals of poverty, on which 
bad lodging, no grooming, stinted food, and hard work produce sad 
effects. The stable in which a case of canker occurs is lamentably dis- 
graced. Every attendant in it ought to be discharged, as the surest 
evidence of a gross want of industry is thereby afforded. 

A horse, perhaps once the pride of the favorite daughter, may descend 
to be the hack of some bawling dust collector. Its wants increase as 
age progresses ; but with the accumulation of years its hardships aug- 
ment. It is sad, very sad, to stand within the shed of some corn-chand- 
ler, and witness, as the day draws in, ragged boys advance and shout 
out, "Three pen'orth o' 'ay bunds." Upon those hay-bands it is even 
more sad to reflect what creature will be obliged to subsist — probably the 
darling once of some aristocratic children ! Now, cramped and diseased, it 
may receive no other food between this time and the following evening. 
The diet being meager, all the rest is on a parallel. The wretched ani- 
mal is purchased only for such a space as it may pull through before it 
passes to the knackers. Every day of life is looked upon as a clear gain, 
for the carcass may be sold for very nigh the price which has been paid 
for the living body. The commonest attention is denied; its bed is filth, 
and its nightly hay-bands are cast upon the flooring. 

What, the humane reader may inquire, can be done to prevent such a 
state of things ? Something surely might be accomplished. To make 
men good, it is first necessary to educate them by communicating knowl- 
edge and also by preventing the commission of wickedness. Were the 
sanitary laws enforced in their spirit, no man would keep an animal who 
had not proper accommodation for the creature he possessed as a prop- 
erty. A horse or a donkey consumes much more air than any human 
being. The air ejected from the lungs of a quadruped is deprived of all 
life-sustaining qualities. The filth of a stable is as corruptive as any 
cess-pool connected with a laborer's cottage. The atmosphere which 
can in the horse engender disease cannot promote health in the superior 
animal. Yet how does it happen that, while sanitary reports are elo- 
quent upon filth and fluent about cess-pools — while they descant learnedly 
upon foul abodes, and enter into all particulars concerning corrupted 
atmosphere — the close, contaminated stables in which all costermongers, 
and some gentlemen, shut up their drudges when the labor of the day is 
over, are never alluded to, are altogether abjured, as though such nui- 
sances had no existence ? 

Canker, like thrush, is not generally attended with much lameness. 
It often astonishes us that, with a foot in such a condition, the animal 
can progress so soundly. It invariably commences at the seat of thrush 
or in the cleft of the frog. A liquid more abominable than that of thrush, 



360 



CANKER. 



and rather more abundant, issues from tliat part. Likewise it frequently 
exudes from the commissures, which unite the horny sole to the frog. 
The horn, also, becomes not only disorganized, but more ragged than in 
thrush. It bulges out at first, and ultimately flakes off, exposing a sub- 
stance not much more resistant than orange-peel. The substance is horn 
in a fungoid state. Its fibers run from the center to the circumference ; 
and between the space of each fiber is lodged a clear liquid, which be- 
comes tainted and dark colored by mingling with the horn that it dissolves 
and corrupts. 

The fungus is secreted in quantity, and always is most abundant when 
located about the edge of the sole. Here the papillae are largest, and 





THE PRIMART ESTABLISnMENT OP CONFIRMED 

CANKER. 

The horn turned back, so as to display the altered 
state of the frog, which indicates a severe attack 
of the disease. 



THE SECOND STAGE OF CANKER, 

Showing the great abundance of fungoid horn 
secreted around the margin of the foot. No 
notice is purposely taken of the frog in this 
illustration. 



here the granulations attain their greatest magnitude. The unresistant 
horn of canker becomes somewhat hard upon the surface of the sole, and 
large flakes pee.l off. Cut into, it displays no sensation ; and this is for- 
tunate, inasmuch as it considerably reduces the difficulties surrounding 
the treatment of a badly-cankered foot. 

Concerning treatment, when the disease is confined to one hind foot, 
or even affects both posterior feet, the case maybe undertaken with some 
degree of confidence. When it has involved one or more of the fore 
feet, it is always difficult to eradicate ; and, in the majority of cases — 
being guided by the age of the animal — a cure had better not be 
attempted. 

When a horse is cankered all round, the disease is apt to seem capri- 
cious. It may be cured in three feet; but it will linger in the fourth, 
resisting art's resources. Suddenly measures before tried in vain seem 
to be endowed with marvelous efficacy. The diseased member, which 
hitherto no treatment could touch, now heals as by its own accord. 
However, before we can express the full of our satisfaction, canker once 



CANKER. 361 

more breaks out agaiu in one of the feet which had been cured ; thus 
the affection dodges about till patience is exhausted. 

Canker has hitherto been reckoned an intractable disorder. It is 
mostly seen in heavy horses, with weak, flat feet. These creatures pro- 
verbially receive but little grooming. They are esteemed 'only for their 
labor, and honored with small attention, which does not decidedly fit 
them for their work. Their stables are seldom to be cited as examples 
of what a horse's home should be. Their beds are never too clean ; and 
a number of foul disorders, as thrush, grease, etc., are located among 
them. Their food is generally measured by the scale of profit and loss ; 
for few cart-horses, in the generality of establishments, can boast of any 
extraordinary care being lavished on their comfort. 

For the treatment of canker, the first thing is to attend to the stable. 
See that the building is lofty and well drained ; that the ventilation is 
perfect, and the bedding unexceptionable. Then inspect the water, the 
oats, and the hay. Allow the horse a liberal support, and with each 
feed of oats mingle a handful of old beans. These things being arranged, 
order the animal into the forge. Cut away every portion of detached 
horn. When that is done, pare off carefully so much of the soft, diseased 
horn as the knife can readily separate. Then apply a dressing of the 
following strength to the diseased parts : — 

Chloride of zinc Half an ounce. 

Common flour Four ounces. 

Mix, and apply dry on the foot. 

To the sound parts use — 

Chloride of zinc Four grains. 

Flour One ounce. 

Cover over the sound parts before you begin to dress the fungoid gran- 
ulations. 

Afterward tack on the shoe. Pad well, so as to obtain all the pressui'e 
possible ; and fasten the padding on the foot by means of cross pieces 
of iron driven firmly under the shoe. Let the horse be carefully groomed, 
and receive four hours' exercise daily. 

On the second day remove the padding. Cut off so much of the gran- 
ulations as appear to be in a sloughing condition. Repeat the dressing, 
and continue examining and redressing the foot every second day. 
When some places appear to be in a state of confirmed health, an appli- 
cation of the following strength should be employed to such parts ; but 
where the granulations continue to sprout, or the horn appears to be of 
a doubtful character, the caustic mixtures of the original strength must 
be used : — 



362 CANKER. 

Chloride of zinc Two grains. 

Flour One ounce. 

After some time, the dressings may be lengthened to every third day, 
but should not be carried to the distance which some practitioners rec- 
ommend. When so long a period elapses between each examination. 





THE BOTTOM OF A HORSE'S FOOT ^j, IMPROVEMENT IN A CANKERED FOOT. 

WHICH HAS BEEN DRESSED FOR , mi. x i.- f i jr 4.„u- i, • j 

CANKER, SHOWING HOW THE 1. That portion of.^ Cankered foot which IS advancing 

CROSS PIECES ARE PLACED AND toi^a^^ a healthy condition 

2. Canker in a mitigated form, but still present. 



FIXED. 



the foul and irritating discharge, being confined, does more injury than 
the delay can possibly produce good. 

In the plan of treatment here proposed, the chief reliance is placed 
on the action of chloride of zinc. It is the peculiar property of that 
agent to suppress fungoid granulations. The author has some experi- 
ence in the use of this salt. Whenever he gave it to a groom to apply, 
and subsequently he found the wound clogged with proud flesh, the man 
was accused of having neglected to employ the lotion. The evidence on 
which the charge was made never, in a single instance, proved erroneous. 
To suppress fungoid granulation is to cure canker. 

The application here advised is, moreover, cleanly. It is the most 
powerful disinfectant. It does not discolor, like the messes now in gen- 
eral use. It is more gentle in its action than undiluted sulphuric acid, 
etc. etc. It will cause none of those terrible fits of agony, during which 
all applications have to be removed, while the foot has to be bathed and 
poulticed. Notwithstanding all authors agree that the absence of water 
and the presence of pressure are indispensable to the cure of canker, the 
frequent dressings will not endanger the life, nor leave the foot in that 
condition which entails a deformed hoof upon the horse for the remainder 
of its existence. 



THRUSH. 



363 



THRUSH. 




THRUSH IX THE FORE 
FOOT, WITH A THICK 
CRUST, A CONCAVE 
SOLE. AND A SMALL 
FROG. 



Veterinary writers are very fond of splitting hairs about words. 
Thrush, therefore, in most books, becomes "frush ;" notwithstanding, if 
the reader should consult any professional authority, or 
a professor at either of the colleges, the person so ap- 
pealed to will decidedly designate the disease as it is 
here spelled. The disorder therefore bears, in these pages, 
the name it carries in ordinary speech, and all far-fetched 
distinctions are discarded. 

Thrush is a foul discharge issuing from the cleft of the 
frog, and attended with disorganization of the horn. It 
is derived from two causes — either internal disease or bad 
stable management. When internal disease gives rise to 
thrush, it is present in the fore foot. The quarters of the 
hoof are strong and high ; the sole is thick and concave ; the frog small 
and ragged. When bad stable management provokes the disorder, it 
shows itself in the hind foot, which may be of any shape ; but the frog 
is generally large, while the discharge is more copious than in the former 
instance. 

It is sad to think that the creature which lives but to toil, and whose 
existence is a type of such slavery that its greatest freedom is to labor, 
should be begrudged the bed whereon it reposes, or be doomed to stand 
in filth which will generate disease. The horse's foot is not very suscep- 
tible to external influences. It is incased in a hard and inorganic, yet 
elastic substance. Thus protected, it appears like praising the ingenuity 
of man when we say such a body is not proof against his neglect. The 
hoof is made to travel through mud and through water ; 
it is created to canter over sand and over stones. It is 
capable of all its purposes ; but it only seems not fitted 
to be soaking days and nights in the filth of a human 
lazar-house. The drainage of the stable is too often 
clogged ; the ventilation bad ; the bedding rotten, and 
more than half composed of excrement. All that passes 
through the body, from the inclination of the flooring, thrush in the hind 

. FOOT. 

tends toward the hind feet. Over this muck the animal 
breathes. In it the creature stands, and on it the victim reposes. 
No wonder the horn rots when implanted in a mass of fermenting filth. 
The fleshy, secreting parts, which it is the office of the hoof to protect, 
ultimately become afl"ected ; they take on a peculiar form of irritation ; 
from the cleft of the frog a discharge issues ; it becomes colored and 




364 



THRUSH. 




AN ILLUSTRATION OP THE „„„ J.^. ],„ pvpispfl 
ABUNDANCE OP WHITE ^^^ tO 06 eXClSeQ 

POWDER INVESTING DE- 
CAYED HORN, AND OFTEN 
FOUND AFTER THE RAG- 
GED PORTIONS OP A 
THRUSHY FROG HAVE 
BEEN REMOVED. 



offensive through being mixed with the decaying horn ; the smell is most 
abhorrent ; frequently it taints the interior of the place, and to the edu- 
cated nose thus makes known its presence. 

The first thing is to clear the stable, then to cleanse it thoroughly. 
Bed down the stalls with new straw, and attend to the 
animals themselves. Wash the feet well with water, in 
every pint of which is dissolved two scruples of chlo- 
ride of zinc. The fetor will thus be destroyed, and the 
animal be made approachable. Place some of the fluid, 
to be used as required, near the smith, while the man 
cuts away the diseased frog. All the ragged parts 
The knife is to be employed until 
all the white, powdery substance is effectually removed. 
The knife must then be used fearlessly. Every par- 
ticle of the colorless investment of the frog must be 
excised. This is absolutely necessary toward the cure. 
It must be accomplished, although the flesh be exposed, or a large, 
bulging frog be reduced to the dimensions indicated 
in tlie annexed engraving. 

Then the shoe is to be nailed on, and the horse to 
be returned to a clean stall. 

The cause being removed, the effect will soon cease. 
No ointments are required. A little of the chloride 
of zinc lotion, three grains to the ounce of water, may 
be left in the stable, and the keeper should receive 
directions to bathe the frog with this once a day, or oftener if required. 
A piece of stick, having a little tow wrapped round one end, should also 
be given to the man, so that he may force the fluid between the cleft of 
the frog. No greasy dressing need be employed. The ordinary shoe 
is to be used. The diseased part is to be left perfectly uncovered, so 
that it may be the more exposed to the sweetening effects of pure air, 
while the earliest indication of any further necessity for the knife may 
be readily perceived. When the stench has disappeared, a little of the 
liquor of lead, of its original strength, will perfect the cure ; and all that 
is requisite to prevent a return of the disorder is a reasonable attention 
to the cleanliness of the stable. 

At this place, however, the reader may well reflect that, if the filth of 
the stable is capable of rotting the resistant and insensitive horn of the 
horse's foot, how much more is it likely to affect some of those delicate 
structures of which the bulky frame of the animal is composed ! The 
air in which a man might object to live is altogether unfit for a horse to 
inhale. It is true, animals have breathed such an atmosphere, and con- 




THRUSH. 305 

tinued to exist. So, also, is it true that men have been scavengers, and 
have followed that calling on account of what they esteemed its extraor- 
dinary healthfulness. Neither case establishes aught. The animal is 
by nature formed for large draughts of pure air. All other sustenance 
is as nothing, if the primary necessity of life be withheld. Tainted 
atmosphere is the source of more than half the evils horse-flesh is ex- 
posed to. Glanders, farcy, inflammation of the air-passages, indigestion, 
bowel complaints, — in fact, all diseases save those of a local character 
may spring from such a parent. Let every horse-keeper, therefore, if 
from no higher motive, at all events to conserve his property and to 
promote his pecuniary interest, be especially careful about the purity of 
his stables. 

When thrush occurs in the fore feet, it is generally significant of 
navicular disease, and is most frequent in horses which step short or go 
groggily. The hoof feels hot and hard ; a slight moisture bedews the 
central parting of the very much diminished frog. No odor may be smelt 
when the foot is taken up ; but by inserting a piece of tow into the cleft 
of the frog, the presence of the characteristic symptom will be made 
unpleasantly apparent. 

In this case, it is best to remove the ragged thrush and unsound horn, 
doing so, if required, even to the exposure of the sensitive frog. After- 
ward, simply wash the part with a little of the chloride of zinc and 
water, previously recommended. Repeat the. cleansing every morning; 
the intention being, not to remove the thrush, as the horse mostly goes 
lame the instant that is stopped, but merely to correct the pungency of 
the morbid discharge, and thus prevent it in some measure from decay- 
ing the horn. 

Clay, cow-dung, and other favorite filths, employed for stopping the 
horse's feet, if long continued, will produce thrush. 

The worst specimen of the aff'ection the author has encountered, was 
in a horse which had been turned into a moist straw-yard and neglected. 
The thrush generally witnessed in the hind feet may be present in all 
four; but the writer knows of no instance in which the thrush peculiar 
to the fore feet was also observed in the posterior limbs. 

Thrush does not generally provoke lameness. In its more aggravated 
forms, however, it interferes with the pace; and the horse having only 
incipient thrush is liable to drop suddenly, if the foot be accidentally 
placed upon a rolling stone. Now, knowing our roads are made of 
stones, and that the bottom of the horse's foot is, in the ordinary man- 
ner of shoeing, entirely unprotected, it is curious to state that this dis- 
ease is commonly not esteemed unsoundness. Any thrush, when present, 
may lead to acute lameness ; then the lameness would be unsoundness ; 




366 OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

if thrush simply interferes with the action, although it endanger the 
safety of the rider, it is, by the code of veterinary legislation, esteemed 
no reasonable objection to the soundness of a horse. In the author's 
opinion, any animal should be esteemed unsound which has suffered 
from loss of or from change of any structure that ought to be present, 
or has any affection which reasonably could subject it to remedial 
treatment. 

OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

This signifies a conversion into osseous structure of the cartilages 
naturally developed upon the wings of the coffin-bone, or the bone 
of the foot. Here is a drawing of the largest specimen of this trans- 
formation which the writer ever witnessed. 
This was borrowed from the museum of 
T. W. Gowing, Esq.; and, from the mag- 
nitude of the disease, the writer should 
imagine the posterior of the pastern must 
have been in the living animal somewhat 
deformed. 

o>siFiED CARTILAGES. jjj hcavy horsBs, working upon London 

The lateral cartilages of the horse's foot gtoncs, SO Certain are the Cartilages to be- 

have underi^ono change and become ' o 

bone- being now continuous with the comc ossificd that Several large firms pay 

OS pedis. " 1 ./ 

no attention to this defect. They prefer 
an animal with a confirmed disease to a sound horse, which will be cer- 
tain to be ill during the change, and the extent of whose subsequent 
alteration no one can predicate. So far these purchasers act wisely; 
but, in horses designed for fast work, ossified cartilages are a serious 
defect. They frequently occasion lameness, and always interfere with 
the pleasantness of the rider's seat. When accompanied by ring-bone, 
ossified cartilages give rise to the most acute and irremediable lameness. 
Ossified cartilages are incurable. No drugs can force Nature to re- 
store the original structure which has been destroyed. Once let a car- 
tilage become ossified, and it remains in that condition for the creature's 
life. There is little difficulty in ascertaining when this change has taken 
place. The hand grasps the foot just above the coronet; the fingers are 
on one side, and the thumb upon the other. The cartilages lie at this 
place, immediately under the skin. Cartilage is soft, pliable, and semi- 
elastic. It yields very readily to pressure. However, when the thumb 
and fingers forcibly press the part, if, instead of feeling the substance 
under them yield, the hand is sensible only of something as hard as stone, 
or any way approaching to such a character, that is proof positive the 




ACUTE LAMINITIS. ^q^ 

cartilages are ossified, or are approaching change. If the horse has 
recently gone lame, and the seat of cartilages feels of a mixed nature — 
partly soft and partly hard — apply a 
blister to the coronet, so as to convert 
that which is a subacute process into an 
acute action, and with the cessation of 
activity hope to stop the deposit. Re- 
peat the blister if absolutely necessary; 
but there is no occasion to subject more 
than the coronet, and a couple of inches 
above that structure, to the operation of 
the vesicatory. Indeed, blisters act more - ~ 

«■ , 11 n ^ mi • THE CERTAIN TEST FOR OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

eflectually upon coniined spaces. This 

is all that can be accomplished, save by good feeding and liberal usage : 
these are essential, because every abnormal change denotes a deranged 
system ; and this is, in the animal, soonest mended by generous diet. 
Perfect rest and two pots of stout per day may even be allowed, should 
the pulse be at all feeble. 



ACUTE LAMINITIS, OR FEVER IN THE FEET. 

This term implies that the disease is confined to the laminae; the 
word certainly warrants an inference that the other secreting surfaces 
within the hoof are not implicated; such a meaning is generally con- 
ceived to be intended. The name, by inducing erroneous opinion, does 
much injury; the old appellation of fever in the feet is, therefore, much 
more characteristic and altogether more correct. 

The entire of the fleshy portion of the foot is involved in this terrible 
afifliction ; any man, who has had an abscess beneath some part where 
the cuticle is strong, or who has endured a whitlow, may very distantly 
imagine the pain suffered by the horse during fever of the feet. Such 
an individual, if his creative powers be very brilliant, may vaguely con- 
jecture the torture sustained by the quadruped ; but no power possibly 
can realize to the full the anguish sustained by the animal. Man does 
not, like the horse, rest upon his finger's end, and, if he did, the pain he 
would then suffer could not be likened to the terrible afiliction borne by 
the animal, for the following reasons : What is the weight of any man 
to that of a quadruped ? What is the thickness of his skin or the sub- 
stance of his nail to the hardness and stoutness of the horse's hoof? 
The human skin is elastic, and the end of the finger permits some swell- 
ing of its fleshy portion; but the secreting membrane of the horse's foot 
lies between two materials almost equally unyielding. Bone is within. 



368 ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

and horn is without; the heat soon dries the last and deprives it of its 
elasticity; the iirst is naturally unyielding; thus the secreting substance, 
largely supplied with blood, because of inflammation, and acutely en- 
dowed with sensation when swollen and diseased, is compressed between 
the two bodies as in a vice. To conceive the amount of anguish and to 
imagine the violence of the disorder, we have only to recognize the 
pathological law, that Nature is conservative in all her organizations ; 
she protects parts in proportion to their importance to the welfare of her 
creatures, and reluctantly allows injury to be inflicted on any vital organ, 
though she may even permit deprivation of those members which are 
not essential to the animal economy. 

A man may lose a leg; he can live, enjoy life, and to a certain extent 
effect progression with a wooden substitute. Touch the heart of a man, 
however, and being ends. The heart is guarded by the ribs, and so 
securely is it protected that, even in battle, the organ is seldom punc- 
tured ; the hoof of the horse is almost as important to the animal as is 
the heart to the human being. In a free state progression is necessary 
to the support of the body; when domesticated, the horse is valued 
according to its power to progress. 

Yet, the member so important to the creature is, by the nature of 
laminitis, frequently disorganized, and a valuable quadruped, by the 
affliction, may be reduced from the highest price to a knacker's purchase 
money. 

There is some dispute about the kind of hoof most liable to this dis- 
ease. English authors incline toward the weak or slanting hoof. Con- 
tinental writers, however, suppose the strong or upright hoof is most 
exposed to the affliction. Neither party, however, assert any kind of 
hoof to be exempt ; therefore, it may be supposed, were all circum- 
stances similar, every kind of foot would be equally subjected to 
laminitis. 

There is but one cause for acute laminitis — man's brutality. Horses 
driven far and long over hard, dry roads, frequently exhibit the disease. 
Cab and post, as well as gentlemen's horses, after a fine day at Epsom 
or at Ascot, not unfrequently display the disorder. Animals which have 
to stand and strain the feet for any period, as cavalry horses upon a long 
sea voyage, if, upon landing, they are imprudently used without sufficient 
rest, will assuredly fail with this incapacitating malady. Any extraor- 
dinary labor may induce laminitis. Hunters, after a hard run, and racers, 
subsequently to heats, are liable to be attacked; especially should the 
ground be in the state we have before intimated. 

Acute laminitis does not immediately declare itself; the pace of the 
animal, when its work is drawing to a close, may be remarkable ; but 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



369 



this is attributed to the effects of exhaustion. The creature reaches the 
stable; the surface of the body is rubbed over ; the manger and the rack 
are filled ; a fresh bed is quickly shaken down, for, in the opinion of 
grooms, quiet does horses extreme good. The animal is left for the 
night, under the impression that it has everything one of the race could 
require. 

The next morning the horse is found all of a heap, and the food un- 
touched; the flesh is quivering; the eyes are glaring; the nostrils are 
distended, and the breath is jerking. The flanks are tucked up, the 
back is roached, the head is erect, and the mouth is firmly closed; the 
hind legs are advanced, to take the bearing from the inflamed fore mem- 
bers ; the front feet are pushed forward, so as to receive the least pos- 
sible amount of weight, and that upon the heels ; but the feet thus placed 
are constantly on the move. Now, one leg is slightly bent; then, that 
is down and the other is raised; the horse is, according to a vulgar 
phrase, "dancing on hot irons." 

The first indications — food untouched, glaring eyes, etc. — represent 
only excessive agony; the position of the body is symptomatic. The 
hind feet are thrust under the 

1 ^&.i. 






body in order to take the weight 
from the front, or the diseased 
organs ; the fore feet are thrust 
forward and the head held erect, 
that the inflamed parts may be 
as much as possible beyond the 
center of gravity. In this atti- 
tude the wretched quadruped 
will stand, its sides heaving and 
its flesh creeping with the pain 
within the hoofs, and with the 
fire that burns within the blood. 
The teeth are occasionally heard 
to grind against each other ; ex- 
pressive sounds sometimes issue from the throat, and partial perspirations 
burst forth upon the body ; it is a horrible picture of the largest agony ! 

The fore feet are mostly the seat of the disorder; all four may be in- 
volved, but the author has only witnessed the two front affected. The 
implication of the others are rather recorded wonders than general facts. 
The writer, in his professional experience, has met no one to whom a 
case of laminitis involving all four hoofs has been submitted. 

Everything concerning laminitis is in confusion. It is not yet author- 
itatively ascertained whether horses lie down or stand up — whether the 

24 




ACUTE LAMINITIS, OR FEVER IN THE FEET. 



3*70 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



shoes should be taken off or left on — and what kind of treatment it is 
proper to adopt. Any dispute about general facts pronounces both 
parties wrong; it assures us that the experience of the disputants is 
somewhat limited. The circumstances cannot be very marked where the 
recognition is not universal : the treatment can only be not confirmed, 
because none attended with conspicuous benefit has been proposed. 

Horses do often lie down in laminitis ; but they more generally stand. 
When down, they should be suffered to remain; and when up, the first 
thing done should be the employment of slings. Place the cloth under 
the belly with the least possible noise ; the man the horse is accustomed 
to, with orders to soothe the animal when alarm is excited, should be 
stationed at the head. The men who are arranging the slings should 
pause on the slightest sign of fear, and only resume their labor when 




A nORSE IN SLINGS, WITH THE FORE FEET IN HOT 'WATER, FOR ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

confidence is restored. The ropes, however, must not be drawn tight 
and fixed. The ends of the cords should, by means of two extra pul- 
leys, be carried to some distance from the animal. To the end of each 
rope ought to be fastened a stout ring, and on this, by means of hooks, 
weights should be suspended. As the weights are added, the man should 
caress the sufferer till sufficient counterpoise be attached to take the 
principal bearing from the feet without offering much obstacle to the 
breathing. 

With regard to the shoes, we should first soften the hoof by allowing 
the feet to soak in warm water in which a portion of any alkali has been 
dissolved. The slings being applied, the fore feet are to be placed in a 
trough of hot, soft water, and allowed to remain there till the hoof is 
quite pulpy. Then one foot is to be gently raised and the trough par- 




ACUTE LAMINITIS. 371 

tially removed. All this must be done very quietly — not a word being 
spoken — and all operation suspended at the appearance of the smallest 
alarm. The man at the head must not for an instant quit his post. 

The foot being released from the water, a sharp-pointed knife is to be 
employed and the horn cut, so as to free every nail, till the shoe drops 
off; but the iron should not be allowed to clatter on the ground. 

This method is infinitely better than the common practice of taking 
off the horse's shoe. The smith removes the 
shoe by a wrench, using his pliers for the pur- 
pose of gaining extra power. No doubt the 
metal had much better remain on than be thus 
rudely displaced. But, in removing the shoe 
from a softened foot, no smith is necessary, and 
no smith should be employed: the veterinary "nuI.''''which FvicxEN'ox 
surgeon should himself cut out the nails; and ::^,t'^o:^l^ Z^l 
no matter if an hour or two be occupied over ™°j^ during acute lami- 
cach foot. In laminitis there must be no hurry. 

Before the shoes are removed, half a drachm of belladonna and fif- 
teen grains of digitalis should be placed in the horse's mouth. Both 
drugs should be gently introduced, not as a draught or a ball, but in 
sn1)stance, or in the smallest possible bulk. These medicines should be 
repeated every half hour, till the breathing is easier and the pulse some- 
what altered in character. Then some additional weight may be added 
to the slings; and, by taking advantage of similar opportunities, the 
animal may be eventually lifted almost off the ground without display- 
ing any inclination to resist. 

When the horse is in this position, open the jugular vein with a lan- 
cet, making the least possible flurry. Abstract one quart of blood. 




THE STRIXGE TO BE EMPLOYED TO INJECT ULOOD-WAEM WATER INTO THE VEINS DURING ACUTE LAMINITIS. 
THE MARK ON THE ROD DENOTES HOW FAR THE HANDLE IS TO BE PUSHED DOWN. (See Enteritis, p. 170.) 

which may be obtained with the greatest ease. Have ready a quart 
syringe filled with water; inject one pint into the orifice whence two 
pints of blood have been abstracted. The effect will be produced in a 
few minutes. Copious purgation and perspiration will ensue, and the 
fever will be greatly abated. Clothe the horse well up. Place before 
liim a pail of thin gruel with a bundle of green-meat, and enough has 
been done for one day. But mind and leave two men to watch in the 
stable throughout the first three nights. 



372 ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

On the following morning give a dose of ether and laudanum — two 
ounces of both in a pint of water. Let the horse take his own time in 
swallowing : do not care if half the drink should be lost. In fact, if 
the attempt to give the physic should call forth much opposition, abstain 
from administering it : quiet is of more importance than medicine. On 
that account, strict orders should be given to admit no visitors, and the 
strictest injunction concerning silence should be enforced. 

The pulse and breathing must be watched ; and, as either appear to 
augment, the drugs before recommended must be introduced. Should 
the artery on either side of the pastern throb, that sign indicates the foot 
to be congested. This condition must be relieved. With a lancet open 
both pastern veins, which are sure to be in a swollen state, and plunge 
the foot up to the fetlock in warm water. A little blood abstracted by 
this method does more good than the ample venesections so generally 
advised, but which, from their tendency to lower the system, are apt to 
prepare the way for the worst terminations to acute laminitis. Our 
object should be to conquer the disease without reducing the strength ; 
had the horse ten times its natural vigor, such an affliction as acute lam- 
initis would more than exhaust it all. The failure of former practition- 
ers has been chiefly owing to their inattention to this fact. 

While the affection lasts, these measures must be pertinaciously 
adopted ; the feet, the entire time, must be repeatedly put in warm water, 
not only to soften the hoi'n, but because the chief pain is caused by the 
congested or swollen condition of the secretive portion of the foot ; con- 
gestion, likewise, induces the terminations to be most feared ; heat or 
warmth is perhaps the best means of relieving loaded vessels. Cover 
over the water or blind the horse's eyes while in the slings, because acute 
disease is likely to disorder the vision, and a sick, imprisoned animal is 
too apt to be startled by the reflection of its own image. The author 
has had reason to lament the neglect of such necessary precaution. 

The termination to be feared is disorganization — either from the cast- 
ing of the hoof or the descent of the cofiin-bone from its natural situa- 
tion. Tlie first result is preceded by chronic suppuration. A slight 
division is observed between hair and horn ; and from the opening thus 
occasioned a small quantity of unhealthy pus issues, mingled with much 
bloody serum. Ultimately the entire hoof loosens and drops ofiF, exposing 
the fleshy parts beneath. Now, all these fleshy parts must have been 
diseased before they could have separated from their secretion, and such 
fleshy parts are not the laminae only, but all those represented in the 
engravings on page 313. 

The sudden exposure of parts which, during health, are covered and 
protected, cannot otherwise than cause an extraordinary effect upon the 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



373 



body of the sufferer. Persons who have lost a nail seldom have that 
substance renewed in all its original integrity. Deformity or an imper- 





THE SENSITIVE LAMINA AND CORONET DIVESTED 
OP THEIR HORNY COVERING. 



THE SENSITIVE SOLE — FEOO AND BARS DI- 
VESTED OP THEIR HORNY COVERING. 




The new liornj- cover- 
ing which invests the 
foot of the horse after 
sloughing of the hoof, 
as a termination to 
acute laniinitis. 



feet secretion is generally retained to mark the deprivation. Nature 
appears averse to the restoration of any of her original structures. 

Such a catastrophe is denominated sloughing of the hoof. After that 
has occurred it is useless to prolong the suffering by 
permitting the horse to live. Doubtless in time a sort 
of new hoof would be produced, but it would only be a 
deformity. It would want the toughness and strength 
of the original formation. 

Such was the hoof which used to succeed sloughing 
under the old plan of treatment ; the author is happy 
to state he has not witnessed such a misfortune since 
he has followed the practice which he here recommends. 

The suppuration just spoken of was not of the copious 
kind, but was a tardy secretion mingled with bloody 
serum ; it is astonishing such a fact should not have warned veterinary 
surgeons against following depletive measures. The effusion, however, 
of which the writer has next to speak is entirely the result of weakness. 
It does appear most strange that exhausting treatment should have been 
pursued as with infatuation, despite of so evident a warning. The parts 
which in health only secrete horn, during exhaustion throw out serum, or 
the thinner portion of the blood. This separates the coffin-bone from 
its attachments, while the imposed weight forces the loosened bone from 
its natural position. To make this more clear, diagrams of a natural 
foot, and of one which has suffered distortion from acute laminitis, are 
represented on page 3*74. In the natural foot, the pedal bone is situated 
close to the outer crust ; in the laminitic foot, the bone is forced down- 
ward toward the sole, which it ultimately penetrates. There is an artery 
running around the lower edge of the coffin-bone ; upon this artery the 
animal, if suffered to live, would, after displacement of the coffin-bone, 
be obliged to tread. The consequence is that a horse, having a foot 
thus distorted, cannot by any possibility take a sound step ; it lives in 
torture and moves in anguish. 



su 



ACUTE LAMINITIS. 



This formation has been too generally spoken of as pumice foot, 
whereas that peculiarity is altogether distinct. Pumice foot does not 




DIAGRAM. 

A section of the horse's foot, showing the 
natural and relative situations of the 
bones whicli enter into the formation 
of the horse's foot when in a liealthy 
state. 




DIAGRAM. 

A section of the horse's foot after one of 
the terminations to acute laminitis. ex- 
posing the interior of the hoof wlien 
the coffin-bone has faUen from its orig- 
inal situation. 



entirely incapacitate the horse for labor ; it is a chronic disease leading 
to a very opposite species of distortion, or to a bulging of the sole such 
as is here illustrated. 





A SECTION OP THE HORSE'S FOOT, ILLUSTRATING THE 
DISTORTION WHICH COXSTITUTES PUMICE FOOT. 



THE DEFORMITY WHICH ENSUES UPON 
DROPPING OP THE COFFIN-BONE. 



After dropping of the coEBn-bone has taken place, it is commonly said 
that the hoof, struck upon the spot once occupied by the coflSn-bone, 
emits a hollow sound ; such is not the fact. 

The space supposed to be empty is immediately filled by an impure 
horn — a soft, transparent substance, which, if the animal be permitted 
to live, dries, or diminishes in bulk, and the front of the hoof falls in. 
The author once beheld, working in a lime-pit near Reigate, an aged 
animal which, some time previous, had suffered dropping of the coflBn- 
bone ; the animal was shod with leather, and had a shoe lifted from the 
ground by means of large calkins both before and behind. The hoof, 
however, was terribly misshapen ; it hardly admits of such a description 



SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 375 

as would be readily understood ; therefore the hoof is represented from 
a sketch made upon the spot. 

The other terminations to acute larainitis ai'e metastasis and mortifi- 
cation. 

Metastasis is when the fever leaves the feet to fix upon some other 
and remote part, as the lungs, bowels, brain, eyes, etc. Or, fever of the 
feet is frequently asserted to be caused by the inflammation "dropping" 
from those parts into the hoofs ; when such changes ensue, the body 
being already weakened, the attack is seldom of a very acute type ; but, 
nevertheless, it may be attended by disorganization, by distortion, or 
even by death. 

It is a bad symptom should no change be observed in the course of 
the disorder before the expiration of the fifth day; some sad ending may 
then be expected, but it does not invariably follow. The animal should 
be watched night and day; all that can possibly be done to alleviate 
its suffering should be put into practice. For that end, the writer has 
found nothing equal in its soothing effects to perfect quietude, and good 
gruel made with a portion of linseeds and of beans mixed with oatmeal. 
But be sure that laminitis has departed from the feet before the slings 
are removed ; then, even supposing no metastasis to have occurred, do 
not suddenly take all support from the horse, but remove a weight every 
day, so that the restored parts may become gradually used to their orig- 
inal functions. On the first sign indicative of a return to the disorder, 
restore the full counterpoise and recommence treatment ; for acute lami- 
nitis is somewhat treacherous. Very cautiously exercise the invalid 
upon a piece of meadow land ; and, as the health appears restored, 
gradually return to the usual method of treatment. 

^SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 

This is a variety of the former disease ; the characteristic differences 
between the two are thus stated by the esteemed late William Percival : — 

" In neither form is laminitis the disease of the unbroken or unused 
horse. Now and then acute laminitis will appear in the four or five year 
old horse when newly taken into work ; more commonly it is witnessed 
incapacitating the horse when at work, and during the middle period of 
life. Subacute laminitis, on the other hand, is ve.y apt to select the 
aged and worked animal. Secondly, acute laminitis is the immediate 
effect of labor, hard either from its distressful character or its endurance. 
Subacute laminitis, on the contrary, will make its appearance in the 
stable where the horse has been for some time living in a state of idle- 
ness or absolute rest. Thirdly, acute laminitis makes its attack directly 



376 SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 

or shortly after the application of the exciting cause ; subacute laminitis 
approaches so gradually that it is often present some days before its 
existence is discovered. Fourthly, acute laminitis is marJied by great 
suffering and accompanied by raging fever ; in subacute laminitis fever 
is not to be detected, and the mode of progression alone indicates suffer- 
ing. Fifthly, acute laminitis may terminate in metastasis, suppuration, 
and mortification ; in subacute laminitis neither of these issues is to be 
dreaded, for, if we do not succeed in producing resolution, dropping of 
the coffin-bone is the customary ending to the disorder." 

The above, quoted from memory, presents a graphic contrast and an 
admirable portrait of the disorder. It is so eloquent in its brevity that 
it leaves nothing to be added ; therefore the author will at once proceed 
to state his views of the subject. 

Subacute laminitis is always first noticed in the manner of progress- 
ing. The master complains that the horse has become slower ; that the 
whip has lost influence over the body ; and that the animal, when pro- 
gressing, appears to jolt more than usual. This last observation indi- 
cates the kind of horses to which subacute laminitis is principally con- 
fined. Acute laminitis is almost the property of fast saddle-horses ; the 
subacute variety more especially belongs to harness-horses. The author 




THE MANNER OF PROGRESSINO 'WHEN SUFFERING UNDER SUBACUTE LAMINITIS. 

has lately seen specimens of the subacute disease tugging those vehicles 
which were once fashionable and which were called "cabriolets." The 
animal suffering this disorder endeavors to bring the heels only to the 
ground. All its fumbling gait, its supposed sluggishness, and want of 
appreciation for the whip are to be attributed to this desire — to take the 
weight as much as possible from the seat of agony. 

The success of treatment, in a great measure, depends upon the disor- 
der being early detected. Get the horse immediately into slings, as was 
dii'ected for acute laminitis, and proceed in the same manner with the 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 377 

removal of the shoe. Omit all bleeding. If the bowels are costive, 
allow a portion of greeu-meat until the evil is removed ; but do not 
produce purgation. All medicine of a debilitating character must be 
withheld. Give, night and morning, a quart of stout; allow two drinks, 
each containing one ounce of ether, in half a pint of water, during the 
day. This, with half-drachm doses of belladonna as needed to allay any 
symptoms of pain, will constitute the whole of the treatment. 

As regards food, it should consist of sound oats previously ground, 
and a moderate allowance of crushed, old beans. The water should be 
whitened, and all hay strictly withheld. The animal should not be left 
night or day, aud gentleness should be enjoined upon its attendant. The 
food, however, should not be without limit; five feeds of corn are enough 
for one day, if the horse will eat so much. 

Should dropping of the coffin-bone end the attack, it is only charity 
to terminate the existence. In Mr. W. Percival's admirable work the 
reader will find described at length a method proposed for restoring the 
bone to its original position. The author has seen that plan tried more 
than once, but never beheld any good result. The knacker has, in every 
case, been called in to finish the unsuccessful experiment. 

The horse, however, vi^hich recovers from an attack of laminitis, either 
in the acute or subacute form, should ever after be shod with leather ; 
aud were this admirable practice universal, probably, by deadening con- 
cussion, it might altogether eradicate the disease. The expense is the 
objection to its adoption ; but against the cost, the horse proprietor has 
to ask himself, What are a few shillings extra, at each shoeing, to secure 
immunity from that horrible disorder to which the servant of his pleasure 
is exposed ? 

NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

This is the scourge of willing horse-flesh ; it is the disease from which 
favorite steeds mostly suffer ; it is not less fatal in its termination than 
vexatious in its course and painful during its existence. 

The malignancy of the disorder is expended upon the substances which 
in health are without feeling, but which occasion the most acute anguish 
when affected by disease — namely, bone, tendon, and synovial membrane. 
Strictly confined to these structures, and frequently limited to a space 
not half an inch in diameter, the suffering it occasions is such as often 
provokes the sacrifice of the life, and invariably renders the animal next 
to useless. 

It is confined to the interior of the foot, being, as its name implies, 
stx'ictly located upon the navicular bone. The navicular bone is a small 
bone attached to the posterior portion of the os pedis, and resting upon 



318 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 




A DIAGRAM TO EXPLAIN THE SEAT 
OF NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

a. The perforans tendon running 

beneath the bone, and on 
which the bone reposes. 

b. The comparative size and rehv 

live situation of the navicu- 
lar bone. 

c. The synovial sac which facili- 

tates the motion of tlio bone 
on the tendon ; upon the supe- 
riorsurfaceofthissac navicu- 
lar disease is alone exhibited. 



the perforans tendon, which is inserted into the inferior surface of the 
coffin-bone. A synovial sac is placed between the navicular bone and 
superior surface of the tendon, on which the ossoeus structure reposes. 
Synovial sacs are only found in places where motion is great and almost 
incessant ; thus the existence of this formation apprises us that the bone 
and tendon, in a healthy state, are designed to move freely upon each 
other. They do this while unaffected by dis- 
ease ; the foot, indeed, cannot be flexed, ex- 
tended, retracted, or placed upon the ground 
without this busy little joint being put into 
motion. It is, perhaps, as essential a part — 
though of small size — as any of the larger 
structures which enter into the horse's body. 

Navicular disease, however, affects only the 
lower surface of the bone ; the upper surface 
shares another synovial sac, which lubricates 
the articulation of the coffin-bone with the 
lower bone of the pastern. This upper surface 
is never affected ; the navicular bone may di- 
minish or wither through disease, still the affec- 
tion remains confined to its original situation ; 
disease may lead to fracture of the bone or to rupture of the perforans 
tendon, still the superior portion of the navicular bone to the last 
exhibits a healthful condition. 

This most annoying and terrible disorder springs from two causes. 
The first was a very favorite crotchet of the late Professor Coleman, who 
was always theorizing to the injury of the animal it was his office to 
cure. The disease is now largely distributed through that gentleman's 
favorite maxim concerning the absolute necessity that there should be 
pressure upon the frog. Every smith thus instructed tried to bring the 
frog as near the ground as possible, and the consequence was the spread 
of navicular disease. It is true, the frog, in a state of nature, was de- 
signed to bear pressure ; but surely it is folly to talk about the natural 
condition of the horse when nothing like a wild horse exists. Here was 
Coleman's error; he legislated for the most artificial of living creatures, 
which consumes only prepared food, and which moves only over labori- 
ously manufactured roads, as if it had been in an undomesticated con- 
dition, gamboling upon the untilled earth. 

The second cause is, the parsimony of most horse proprietors. Would 
these gentlemen have their favorites shod with leather, the smith would 
be obliged to slightly raise the frog ; while the leather — if good, stout, 
sole leather — and the stopping would protect the seat of navicular dis- 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 319 

ease from injury. With regard to the first cause, it was recognized by 
the late W. Percival, one of Coleman's most enthusiastic pupils; and, 
as concerns the last, its efficacy as a preventive needs no pleading nor 
any reference to establish its merits. 

The horse, when attacked, commonly has a good open foot — in fact, 
before disease commences, the foot is healthy. An animal in this con- 
dition is being ridden or slowly led out of the stable. In the last case 
it, being fresh, may rejoice to feel and sniif the cool air of heaven. It 
may prance about, and we may admire its attitudes; but in an instant 
it becomes dead lame. So a horse may be mounted by a kind master; 
the creature may be going its own pace, when, of a sudden, the move- 
ment shall change, and the rider will be made conscious that his steed is 
lame. 

In either case the foot is examined. It is cool, quite cool ; no stone 
appears to have injured it — nor is any pebble sticking between the web 
of the shoe and the sole. Yet the lameness is acute and does not pass 
off. Now, to explain this, let the reader turn to the illustration which 
was last presented. 

The portion of the foot, immediately under the navicular bone, has 
been placed upon a stone ; the stone has been forced against the foot by 
the immense weight of the horse imposed upon it. The stone, under 
this impulse, has bruised the navicular bone. But the fleshy frog and the 
perforans tendon would have to be passed before this effect could reach 
the bone. Are neither of these also hurt? Doubtless they are. But 
the fleshy frog is a highly organized, secretive organ, and probably, by 
its innate energy, soon recovers from the effect. The tendon is, on the 
contrary, too soft and yielding to retain any harsh impression. The 
bone is firm and solid ; and thus that which failed to act upon either of 
the intervening parts, leaves a lasting injury upon the osseous structure, 
which, moi'eover, is held stationary by the coronary bone, and which is 
disposed to display injury, being covered by synovial membrane. 

The navicular bone belongs to a peculiar class called "sesimoid, or 
floating bones." These are more highly organized than the generality 
of osseous structures — in short, quite as much, or rather moi'e, than the 
human tooth. Everybody must be acquainted with the anguish occa- 
sioned by unexpectedly biting upon a hard substance. The tooth, how- 
ever, is coated with crystalline enamel. The bone is covered by delicate 
synovial membrane. The impression is, therefore, more likely to be 
lasting with the last than the first. 

After the expiration of a week, however, the lameness disappears, and 
the proprietor fondly hopes all is over. The animal may work soundly 
for months — sometimes it never fails again. Generally, however, after 



380 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 



some period, extending from six to nine months, the lameness reappears. 
This time the treatment occupies a longer space ; and the subsequent 
soundness is of shorter duration. Thus the malady progresses; the 
period occupied in curative measures lengthens, while the season of use- 
fulness diminishes ; till, in the end, the horse becomes lame for life. 

The worst of it is, that the pain in the lame foot occasions greater 
stress to be thrown upon the sound member ; the result generally is that 
both legs ultimately become affected with the like disease : such is ordi- 
narily the case. The horse with a tender foot will always bring it 
gently to the earth ; but this circumstance obliges the animal to cast the 
other foot to the ground with heedless impetuosity. The consequence 
is, the sound foot is sooner or later forced upon some stone or other 
inequality; from the law of sympathy, the disease subsequently makes 
rapid strides; for at death both feet are usually found in a similar 
condition. 

The effect of these repeated attacks is soon shown. The anguish has 
been likened to toothache, only it must assuredly be a toothache twenty 




A HORSE, WITH NAVICULAR DISEASE, POINTING IN THE STABLE. 



times magnified. All people know "there never yet was philosopher 
who could withstand the toothache;" but think of the poor horse with 
twenty toothaches compressed into one agony ! The man can seek a 
thousand changes to divert his suffering ; the simple horse cannot even 
drink intoxicating fluids, and has hitherto not learned to smoke. The 
suffering, therefore, continues. And as man strives to spare a decayed 
tooth by masticating on the other side of the mouth, the horse endeavors 
to ease an aching foot by leaning all its weight upon a sound limb. 
Thus it learns to point in the stable or to advance one leg beyond the 
center of gravity, leaving the healthy member to support the entire 
weight of the body. 



NAVICULAR DISEASE. 



381 




A foot thrown out of use decreases in size. Nature has given certain 
parts for certain purposes; and if these purposes are avoided, those 
parts diminish in bulk. Wear the arm in a sling 
for any extended period, and the arm will sensibly 
grow smaller, or become withered. So the horse's 
foot, spared in progression and pointed in the 
stable, obviously changes its shape. The quarters 
draw inward; the heels narrow; the frog hardens 
and decreases ; the sole thickens and heightens ; 
the crust becomes marked by rims and grows con- 
siderably higher. In fact, the foot, from being 
an open, healthy foot, becomes a strong, contracted, or diseased member. 

The effect of the disease is speedily shown by the animal progress- 
ing entirely upon the toe, whereby the front of the shoe becomes much 
worn, as shown in the following engraving. Indeed, it is not unusual to 
see shoes taken from horses having navicular disease with their front 
edges worn positively to a cutting sharpness. When the animal is in 



THE UPRIOHT PASTERN AND 
HARD, UNYIELDING HOOF, 
INDICATIVE OF CONFIRMED 
NAVICULAR DISEASE. 




THE TROT, PECULIAR TO NAVICULAR DISEASE, GENERALLY TERMED GROGGINESS. 

this stage, the mode of progression is usually what is termed groggy — 
that is, the hind feet, which are never affected, step out as boldly as 
ever; but the fore feet are limited in their action. They cannot be 
advanced far, because extension causes the perforans tendon to press 
upon the navicular bone ; the leg cannot be bent, because flexion moves 
the perforans tendon upon the navicular bone. The animal, thus doubly 
disabled, endeavors to make up by quickened movement for that which 
it lacks in perfect action. It dare not bring the heel to the ground or 
take long steps. It therefore progresses upon the toes, and indulges in 
very short but quick movements of the fore feet; and a horse thus 
affected may be challenged, though unseen, by the "palter, patter! clat- 
ter, clatter r^ which it makes. 



382 NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

Navicular disease appears to the author to have been entirely mistaken 
as regards its treatment. It is administered to as though it consisted in 
violent and acute inflammation, whereas it is caused by a different pro- 
cess — namely, ulceration. Inflammation excites the whole system, and 
occurs in strong bodies : ulceration is a diseased condition peculiar to 
the aged and to the weakly. Navicular disease is, so far as the writer's 
knowledge extends, unknown in the unbroken animal. It mostly affects 
the adult or the aged. It is not inflammatory ; for the foot, in the first 
instance, exhibits no heat, and, in the after-stages, never becomes more 
than warm. Often the warmth is so very slight that practitioners have 
to adopt a kind of stratagem to determine which is the more hot of the 
fore feet. A pail of water is brought forward, and sufficient to thor- 
oughly wet both hoofs is thrown over the feet. The parts are then 
watched ; and that which becomes dry the sooner is reasonably consid- 
ered the warmer hoof of the two. 

Moreover, the consequences of this disease are absorption, which it 
takes years to eff"ect — not deposition, which is accomplished in a few 
days. The bone lessens in size, sometimes grows thin, till ultimately it 
may fracture ; the tendon loses in substance, and its fibers separate, till 
at length they may rupture. All internal structures which enter into 
the composition of the foot grow less and less, till the hoof becomes 
obviously small or contracted ; for it is a law of nature that, in the living 
creature, the contents should govern the covering : thus the brain con- 
trols the skull, the lungs regulate the chest, etc. etc. The horn alone 
increases ; but it is a curious fact that Nature always endeavoi's to pro- 
tect the part she allows to suffer from disease : thus in rickets, with 
children, the bones of the legs frequently curve ; 
but Nature, true to her principles, strives, by 
extra deposition, to strengthen the parts which 
threaten to break through weakness. 

All tokens declare the navicular disease to 
be a chronic affection, attended by symptoms 
of bodily weakness. The accompanying exam- 
ple of the disorder, taken from the body of a 
horse which was killed for incurable lameness, 

A MORBID PREPARATION, KIXDIT .,, .,, , , /■ n ,i . /. , 

LENT TO THE AUTHOR BY T. w. Will ilfustratc fuffy this fact. 

GowiNG, ESQ. j^ ^j^jg specimen, the navicular bone occupies 

The diseased surface of the na- , . . , , . 

vicuiar bone exposed, and the its natural Situation betwecu the wings of the 

affected tendon turned back up- mij_ ±- /-^i ^ i-i 

on the lower part of the 03 pedis. OS pedlS. 1 hat pOrtlOU Ot the tCUdOU WhlCh 

once shared and concealed the disease is turned 
back upon the sole of the coffin-bone. What does the inspection dis- 
close ? Three small holes within the bone, and a few stains of blood, 




NAVICULAR DISEASE. 383 

which denote irritation upon the tendon. For, as the disease progresses, 
synovia ceases to be secreted, the navicular joint becomes dry, and is 
subject to the most torturing irritation every time the leg is moved. 

That the one presented may not by the reader be supposed an extreme 
case, produced to support the writer's opinions, another specimen of the 
disease is given ; but, on this last occasion, both sides of the navicular 
bone shall be exhibited. The upper surface appears perfectly healthy ; 
the lower surface only displays a large clot of blood, and a small but 
comparatively a deep hole. 





THE SUPERIOR SURFACE OP THE NAVICUIAR BONE. THE INFERIOR SURFACE OF THE SAME BONE. 

Supposing the reader to be convinced of the justness of the writer's 
views, the treatment which these recommend shall be stated. Ulceration 
in any form proves the body to be weak or exhausted. Feed liberally, 
chiefly upon crushed oats and old beans. Attend to any little matter in 
which the horse's body may be wrong ; but do little to the foot beyond, 
every other night, soaking it one hour in hot water, for the first fortnight. 
Afterward apply flannel bandages to the leg, put tips upon the hoofs, 
and wrap the feet up in a sponge boot, having first smeared the horn 
with glycerin. This, with a very long rest, is all it is in our power to 
accomplish. The rest, however, should be proportioned only to the pro- 
prietor's pocket or to his powers of endurance. In the first instance, 
six months' rest in a well-aired stable, and three subsequent months at 
slow agricultural employment, will not be thrown away, but will be likely 
to prevent future annoyances. After one relapse, the treatment is all 
but hopeless. The horse may be again restored to soundness ; but the 
disease, which has with time gained strength, will be all but certain to 
reappear. 

This, probably, may be the fittest place for stating the writer's reason 
for objecting to the treatment generally adopted. 

Bleeding from the toe is decidedly objected to, because there never 
are any signs of inflammation present, but rather those symptoms whicli 
favor the belief that too little blood circulates within the foot. Blister- 
ing the coronet is more likely to augment the crusts than to reach the 
disease ; and the tendency of navicular derangement is to thicken the 
horn. The same reasoning applies to paring out the foot and placing 
the hoof in poultices ; it is more likely to act upon, and lead to activity 
in, the secreting membrane, which is near the surface, than to operate 



384 NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

beneficially upon a remote joint. Objection is taken to the feet standing 
in clay, because the cold produced by evaporation is disposed to drive 
blood from the parts, which already have too little. 

In extreme cases, neurotomy, or division of the nerve, is the only 
resort. For a detailed account of that operation the reader is referred 
to the next chapter. It permits the horse to be of some service to the 
master, and allows the animal an escape from the agonies of a cruel dis- 
ease ; it is, however, not final. It conceals the lameness ; it rarely cures 
the disorder. The internal ravages may still go on ; and, though the 
nerve of the leg has been properly divided, yet at an uncertain period 
nerves generally reunite, and the part which was deprived of sensation 
may become once more sensitive to pain. Moreover, no eye can look 
upon the internal ravage. Sensation destroyed in a foot tempts the 
horse to throw even more than its proportion of weight on a part weak- 
ened by disease. The bone has fractured, or the tendon has ruptured, 
under too sudden a test of their integrity. 

For the above reasons, neurotomy is always most successful when 
early performed. In the primary state of the disorder, a restoration 
of the foot to its healthy functions has seemed to banish the affection. 
Pressure being given to the neurotomized organ, health has occasion- 
ally returned ; and when the time has arrived for the reunion of the 
nerve, that event has been signalized by no reappearance of lameness. 

But when the disorder has continued so long as to weaken the struc- 
tures of the foot, operation is always attended with hazard. The nerve 
may be properly divided ; the operation shall be admirably performed ; 
still the parts, weakened by the joint actions of active disease and of 
long rest, have become disorganized. Pressure being suddenly restored, 
the debilitated structures could not sustain the restoration of that burden 
they were originally formed to endure. Rupture or fracture was the 
result ; and the veterinary surgeon, despite his admirable talent, is dis- 
graced by being obliged to order the immediate destruction of that 
animal which it was intended he should have benefited. 

For the above reasons, and because the sound member is always dis- 
posed to exhibit the disorder which incapacitates one foot, never delay 
adopting the only chance of certain relief. If from pecuniary motives, 
or from better but mistaken feelings, the proprietor hesitates to subject 
his dumb companion to the surgeon's knife, never afterward should he 
repent of such a resolve. With delay the opportunity of benefit has 
passed ; the operation, to be successful, should be resorted to upon the 
second appearance of acute and decided lameness. 



CHAPTER XIY. 

INJURIES THEIR NATURE AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



POLL EVIL. 

Poll evil consists of a deep abscess, ending in an ulcerous sore which 
lias numerous sinuses. The situation of the aifection is the most for- 
ward portion of the neclv, near the top of the head, which part is pecu- 
liarly liable to injury, especially in agricultural horses. 

The gentlemen who superintend the laying down of stable floors always 
make the pavements of the stalls to slant from the manger to the gang- 




THE POSITION OF THE HEAD BEFORE AJf EN'L.VKnEMENT ANNOUNCES THE EXISTENCE OF AN ABSCESS ON 

THE POLL. 

way. They either know nothing about the habits of the horse, or they 
disdain to think about so trivial a matter as the convenience of an ani- 
mal. Their stables are built for men ; and it is sufficient if the places 
will hold whatsoever man chooses to put into such out-buildings. 

The horse is most at ease when the position takes the strain off the 
flexor tendons. That end is accomplished when the hind legs are the 
higher portion of the body, or when the ground slants in precisely the 
opposite direction to which the flooring of all present stables incline. 
The animal, finding the slope which is most convenient for the builder's 
purposes adverse to its comfort, endeavors to compound the matter by 

25 (385) 



386 POLL EVIL. 

hanging back upon the halter, thus getting the hind feet into the open 
drain which always divides the stalls from the gangway. 

The rope should be stout which has to sustain the huge weight of the 
horse ; in proportion to that weight, of course, must be the pressure 
upon the seat of poll evil. Pressure, as a natural consequence, stops 
circulation. Upon circulation being freely performed, health, secretion, 
and even life itself is dependent. The flow of blood to any part of the 
body cannot be long prevented without unpleasant sensations being en- 
gendered. Numbness and itching are the first results. The horse tries 
to master these by rubbing its head violently against the trevise or divi- 
sion of the stall. Friction, when applied to an irritable place, is never 
a soothing process ; when instituted by the huge strength of a horse, its 
probable ill effects may be easily surmised. It is, therefore, no legiti- 
mate cause for wonder if some of the fleshy substances, compressed 
between the external wood and the intei'ual bones of the neck, become 
bruised, and deep-seated abscess is thus provoked. 

This, however, is not the sole cause; there are others equally potent 
and generally springing from the same source — namely, from human folly. 
How much of animal agony might be spared if man, in the pride of 
superiority, would deign to waste an occasional thought upon the poor 
creatures which are born and live in this country only by his permission 
and to labor in his service 1 Stable doors are commonly made as 
though none but human beings had to pass through them. The tallest 
of mankind, probably, might enter a stable without stooping; but does 
it therefore follow that a horse can pass under the beam without assum- 
ing a crouching position ? Many horses learn to fear the doorway. 
They shy, rear, or prance, whenever led toward it. Man, however, 
refuses to be instructed by the action of his mute servant ; those symp- 
toms of fear, which are the bitter fruits of experience, are attributed to 
the patient and enduring quadruped as exhibitions of the rankest vice. 

Low doors, such as usually belong to stables, are among the most 
frequent causes of poll evil. The horse, when passing through them, 
is either surprised by something it beholds outside the building, or 
checked by the voice of the groom. The sudden elevation of the head 
is, in the animal, expressive of every unexpected emotion. Up goes the 
crest and crash comes the poll against the beam of the doorway. A 
violent bruise is thereby provoked, and a deep-seated abscess is the sad 
result. 

The horse likewise suffers from the representatives in brutality of him 
for whose benefit it wears out its existence. Carters display their 
ignorance by getting into violent passions with their teams. "Whooay " 
and "kum hup" are shouted out; the huge whip is slashed and snaffle 



POLL EVIL. 38t 

jagged, till mute intelligence is fairly puzzled. Were mortals in the like 
position, subject to the same terrible chastisement, and, at the same 
time, forbid to inquire the wishes of their commander, they would be 
in no better condition. The panting, sweating, and starting of the poor, 
confused quadrupeds announce their terror. The driver, too enraged 
to understand himself, and too impatient to delay punishment upon the 
objects of his wrath, resorts to the butt-end of his heavy whip. Some 
wretched animal is struck upon the poll, for the head is always aimed at 
when stupidity quarrels with its own ignorance, and a dreadful disorder 
is established. 

All the causes of poll evil may, however, be reduced to one — namely, 
to external injury. The first result of such a cause is pain whenever 
the head is moved. Motion enforces the contraction of the bruised 
muscles; and the agony growing more and more acute, the sufferer 
acquires a habit of protruding the nose in a very characteristic manner 
long before the slightest symptom of the malady can be perceived. 
When forced to bend the head toward the manger, it generally hangs 
back to the length of the halter; for although so doing occasions pain, 
the position renders the necessary angle of the head upon the neck as 
little acute as possible. The anguish attendant upon the earlier stages 
of the disease is exemplified by the length of time occupied in emptying 
the manger. At this stage nothing is apparent; at this period also 
great cruelty is too often exercised when the collar is forced over the 
head regardless of the struggles of the acutely-diseased animal. 

Should the seat of poll evil at this stage of the disease be par- 
ticularly examined, the most lengthened inspection, when prompted by 
expectation, may fail to detect even an indication of probable enlarge- 
ment. Pressure, or enforced motion of the head, excites resistance. A 
few weeks in some cases, and the swelling becomes marked or prominent. 
In others, the enlargement is never well developed : instances of this 
last kind invariably are the most difiicult to treat, for in them the seat 
of the disorder is always most deeply seated. The size of the tumor is 
therefore always to be hailed as a promise that the injury is tolerably 
near the surface, and, consequently, more under the influence of remedial 
measures. 

After pressure has been made, the agony occasioned causes the animal 
to be difiicult of approach. The common method of examination is, 
however, very wrong. Xo good is done by inflicting torture. Some- 
thing, on the contrary, is concealed. Place the fingers lightly on the 
part, and allow them to remain there till the fear, excited by a touch 
upon a tender place, has subsided. Then, and not till then, gradually 
introduce pressure. The more superficial the injury, the more speedy 



338 



POLL EVIL. 



will be the response. The longer the time and greater the force requi- 
site to induce signs of uneasiness, the deeper, as a general rule, will be 
the center of the disease. 

In either case there is little good accomplished by those applications 
which are recognized as mild measures. Fomentations and poultices 
commonly waste valuable time, and, at last, prove of no avail. There- 
fore, blister over the place. Obviously, the employment of more active 
treatment is at present forbidden. Do not, however, give the carter so 
much liquid blister, to be rubbed in by his heavy and coarse hand; but 
lightly paint over the seat of the supposed hurt with spirituous or 
acetous tincture of cantharides. Do this daily till copious irritation is 
produced, and, before that dies away, repeat the dressing. Keep up 
the soreness, but do no more. Never apply the tincture upon active 
vesication, otherwise a foul sore, ending in a lasting blemish, may be the 
result. Make the poll merely painful. An additional motive will thereby 
be instituted to keep the head perfectly quiet, for constant motion pro- 
vokes the worst consequences of poll evil, causing the confined pus to 
burrow, or to form sinuses. 

The foregoing treatment has been proposed because the tincture, 
when applied by means of a brush, penetrates the hair more quickly, 
acts quite as energetically, and is less likely to run down upon other 
parts than the oil of cantharides, which the heat of the body always 
renders more liquid. It is advised to be used, because it establishes an 
external inflammation. Inflammations in living bodies, like fires prey- 
ing upon inanimate substances, have 
an attraction for each other. All 
injuries which lead to suppuration 
likewise have a tendency to move 
toward the surface ; and these two 
laws, acting together, very probably 
may tend to the speedier develop- 
ment of poll evil, thereby shorten- 
ing the sufferings of the animal. 
Should they not have that effect, 
the vesicatory is beneficial. About 
the head of the horse are numerous 
layers of thin tendon, which are termed fascia. Through this substance 
matter absorbs its way with difficulty. It is, therefore, almost impris- 
oned, and motion always disposes the pus to seek new outlets. Thus 
pipes or sinuses are formed; these constitute one of the worst symp- 
toms attendant upon poll evil. 

As soon as the swelling appeal's, watch it attentively. Wait till 




POLL KVIL BUEIXG THE FIRST STAGE. 



POLL EVIL. 389 

some particular spot points, or till it feels softer, if it be not more 
prominent than the surrounding substance. Then have the animal cast. 
Being down, take a keen knife and open the spot before indicated. That 
being accomplished, pause while the secretion flows forth. Afterward 
insert into the cut a small, flexible probe. When its progress is Impeded, 
employ the knife with a director. Continue doing this till the seat or 
center of the disease has been gained. 

Remember, however, you are not hacking at the family loaf ; it is 
living and sensitive flesh you are wounding. Therefore, be very careful 
your knife is thoroughly sharpened, and is of suSicient size ; mind, also, 
that all the cuts run smoothly into one another, so as to leave clean sur- 
faces for the healing process to unite. Having reached the heart of the 
disorder, proceed to empty out all the concrete matter. That done, wash 
out the part with a syringe and the coldest spring water. Afterward 
examine the cavity. Excise any loose pieces of tendon or of ligament, 
and cut until a healthy aspect is everywhere presented. Then rub the 
sides of the deep-seated wound with lunar caustic. Let the horse rise, 
giving orders that the sore is to be thoroughly moistened thrice daily 
with the solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water, 
and, placing a rag dipped in a solution of tar over the wound to keep 
off the flies, return the horse to the stable. 

If the disease be left to run its course, the swelling generally increases, 
while numerous openings at last disfigure the enlargement. From such 
drain a glairy discharge. This adheres to the surrounding parts, and, 
joined to the miserable expression of the countenance, gives to the horse 
a peculiarly unpleasant appearance. The flesh wastes under the per- 
petual anguish, and the half-conscious aspect of the creature justifies a 
suspicion that the brain is affected. 

In that case, proceed as before directed concerning casting the horse 
and the knife with which you operate. Have the blade rather too large 
than too small. Most veterinary instruments are mere adaptations of 
those employed by the human surgeon. The author never remembers 
to have seen anything approaching to the magnitude of a proper horses 
operating knife in the hands of his fellows. A small blade compels 
numerous small cuts. The part is rather snipped asunder than divided 
by one clean incision. The recovery is thereby materially delayed; and 
the lengthened operation greatly deteriorates from its chances of success, 
not to dwell upon the increased suffering occasioned to the quadruped. 

The horse being down, do not attempt any display of your proficiency. 
Look well and long at the part intended to be operated upon. Decide 
in your own mind the course in which the knife is to move. That course 
should be influenced by the direction in which you may probably sepa- 



390 



POLL EVIL. 




POLL EVIL I.\ ITS SECOND STAGE, OR WHEN READY FOR 
OPERATION. 



rate the greater number of sinuses. In the engraving inserted below there 
are four holes, each indicating the presence of a sinus. The supposed 
direction of the knife is laid down by dotted lines. The primary and 
lower incision includes three of the pipes. That made, another connects 
the other sinus with the longer incision ; the after-labor necessitates the 
cleaning of the central sac, removing all the hanging pieces, also probing 

the sinuses, and making sure 
all are fairly opened. If any 
are found unopened, a director 
should be inserted, and the 
channel should be connected 
with the cliief wound by means 
of a smaller knife. 

Two cautions are necessary 
to be given with regard to the 
treatment of poll evil : Never 
permit the knife to be applied 
upon the root of the mane. Underneath the hair which decorates the 
neck of the horse lies an important ligament, by means of which the 
head is chiefly supported. All the evils which might be anticipated 
may not spring from the division of that development ; but it is well to 
spare it, although the prostrate animal should have to be turned over, 
and the operation have to be continued on the other side. Also, when 
working the creature subsequent to its recovery, never use a collar. 
Wounds, although perfectly healed, are apt to remain morbidly sensitive ; 
serious accidents, over which the reader would deeply grieve, may occur 
from the harness touching the part which once was diseased. A breast 
strap is, therefore, to be much preferred. 

There are several popular methods of treating this disease. All, 
however, are cruel ; one is barbarous ; when properly conducted, none 
are efficient under the direction of a person possessing the smallest feel- 
ing. The injection of potent caustics in solution, or violent compression 
upon an exquisitely tender swelling even until the force employed amounts 
to that power which can bring the sides of a distant internal cavity to- 
gether, drive out the corruption, and hold the part in that position while 
healing is established, have been largely advocated. Whoever could 
increase the suffering of a mute and patient life to that degree which the 
last method necessitates would merit a much severer punishment than 
the writer can afford space to detail. Of these modes of cure the author 
can profess no experience. He has, however, seen injections used ; in 
no instance have they been successful. The time which they occupied 
was enormous, and the expense with which they were attended by no 



FISTULOUS WITHERS. 391 

means small. The man who hopes to eradicate this disease should never 
have recourse to them. 

Another process, formerly very popular, consisted in slicing the living 
flesh in a very coarse and vulgar manner ; that, however, was merely 
preparatory. The chief dependence was placed in boiling liquor, which 
was inhumanly poured into the wounds. After such a method were all 
sinuous sores treated by an ignorant and uneducated quack, who espe- 
cially delighted in eradicating such forms of disease. The writer has 
heard terrible descriptions given of the agony produced, and equally 
revolting has been the picture of the filth employed by this unqualified 
horse doctor. While, however, the course which has been mentioned is 
reprobated, our heaviest condemnation should alight upon those persons 
who could so violate the sacredness of their trusts as to surrender any 
creature to the torments of so horrible a remedy. 

In poll evil, the only certainty reposes on the knife. When properly 
employed, the operation is brief; the temporary agony bears no propor- 
tion to the years of subsequent relief thereby secured. To be properly 
employed, however, it should be used as though the person invested with 
it was, for the time, divested of all feeling. He who accepts it must 
think only upon what he is about to perform, and must summon resolu- 
tion to do it quickly. In surgery, hesitation is positive cruelty ; the 
knife, to be curative, should be gracefully moved through the living flesh. 
All notching and hacking are tortures, and worse than folly ; the blade 
should sweep through the substance ; and, to prevent the struggles of 
the quadruped from interfering with the intentions of the surgeon, all 
that will be necessary is for some person to sit upon the cheek of the 
prostrated animal. 

FISTULOUS AVITHERS. 

This disease, in its chief characteristics, closely resembles poll evil. 
It, however, differs from that disorder in one fortunate particular •, poll 
evil must come to maturity before its cure can be attempted with any 
hope of success. Injury to the withers is easiest eradicated when 
attacked upon its earliest appearance ; both, however, in their worst 
periods, proceed from pus being confined, from it decomposing and its 
establishing numerous sinuses. When disease has reached tJiis stage, 
the only certain cure is the free but skillful use of the knife. 

Fistulous withers, in the first instance, is an injury to one of the 
superficial bursce which nature has provided to facilitate the movement 
of the vertebral, points spinal under the skin. The hurt is occasioned 
by badly-made saddles, but more especially by the ladies' saddles. 
Some fair equestrians delight to fee^ their bodies lifted into the air, and 



392 



FISTULOUS WITHERS. 



enjoy the trivial slioelc of the descent; such movements, however, neces- 
sitate the weight should be leaned upon the crutch and stirrup. This kind 
of exercise is never indulged in by good female riders, as no saddle, 
however well constructed, can resist the constant strain to one side. 
Friction is produced; a bursa is irritated, and the animal will, under 
the best treatment, be rendered useless for a fortnight. Rolling in the 
stalls is also reported to have occasioned this affection; so likewise is 
the heavy hammer of the shoeing smith, intemperately employed to 
chastise the transient movement of an observant horse. 

When first produced, the remedy is certain and easy. A swelling 
about the size of an egg appears near the withers, upon the off side of 
the body. Go up to the horse upon that side ; have with you a keen- 
edged and sharply-pointed knife of pocket dimensions. Stand close to 
the animal ; then impale the tumor, and, having the back of the blade 
toward the quadruped, cut quickly upward and outward. Mind, and 
stand very close to the center of the body, as the pain of this trivial 

operation is apt to make the creature 
lash out and prance. At the spot in- 
dicated a person is perfectly safe; 
neither hoof nor leg will touch that 
particular place, or even come near 
it. Rest one hand on the back, and 
by your voice reassure the startled 
creature. 

The swelling being divided, ex- 
change the knife for a lunar caustic 
case; smear over the interior well 
with the cautery, and all the business 
is over. Never, however, attempt to 
pass by the heels of a steed which has 
been pained. The animal may sus- 
pect your motives, and the hind feet of the horse are the most powerful 
weapons of offense and of defense. Have the creature backed from the 
stall ei-e you attempt to quit it. Subsequently keep the wound moist 
with the lotion composed of chloride of zinc — one grain to the ounce 
of water; also have the part covered with a rag, moistened with solu- 
tion of tar. In nine or ten days the incision will have healed, and after 
the lapse of a fortnight the animal may return to its ordinary employ- 
ment. 

Should this remedy be neglected, pus is soon formed within the en- 
largement, and the formation is accompanied by swelling, heat, and 
pain. The horse is useless, and continues thus till the affection is 




THE SLIGHT ENLARGEMENT WHICH, BADLY 
TREATED OR UNATTENDED TO, MAY END 
IN FISTULOUS WITHERS. 



FISTULOUS WITHERS. 



393 




A HORSE 'WITH FISTCTLOCS 'niTHJiRS IX THE WORST STAGE. 



eradicated. The animal cannot wear a collar; it cannot endure a sad- 
dle ; at length numerous holes are formed upon the enlargement. These 
are the mouths of so many sinuses, and from each exudes a foul dis- 
charge. The pool' quadruped evidently suffers greatly; it will almost 
stand still and starve rather than brave agony by violent motion. 

The only remedy is by operation ; make an incision so as to embrace 
the greatest number of holes. Then cut from the other openings into 
the main channel ; this done, 
have the sides of the wound 
held back", while the center 
of corruption is cleaned out. 
Such is a very filthy and un- 
pleasant office ; if the bones 
are affected, all the diseased 
parts must be removed. 
When slight, the tainted por- 
tions may be scraped away; 
when of long standing, the 
spines of the vertebrge have 

been sundered with the saw and thus taken from the body. At any 
risk, none but healthy bone must be suffered to remain ; all discolored 
or white portions of the bony structure must be extirpated, and none 
but that which' is of a healthy pink color suffered to continue. If a 
particle of unhealthy, osseous growth is left behind, the wound may 
close, but it will break out again, and the disease become as bad as 
ever. 

The cleansing being accomplished, apply the cloth over the wound, 
and keep wet with the lotion formerly directed to be used. 

Sometimes the sinuses will take a dangerous direction, and, favored 
by the action of the shoulder, will burrow from the withers to the chest 
or elbow. Then the knife cannot be employed. Should a })ipe incline 
to "this course, but be of comparatively short extent, insert a little 
bichloride of mercury down the channel. This is best done by powder- 
ing some of the salt. Dip the elastic probe, which has recently been 
down the sinus, into the powder. Reinsert it, and continue to repeat 
this action till all the bichloride is expended. 

If the sinus should have run its entire course, but not have found an 
exit below, then employ a long guarded seton needle, such as can be 
purchased at all veterinary instrument makers. Insert this in its 
guarded state, and, having pushed it as far as it will go, give, upon 
the end of the handle, a moderately sharp blow; this will force out the 
cutting edge and drive the point through the flesh. Pass a long tape, 



394 FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

with a knot at the further end of it, through the opening near the point, 
and withdraw the instrument, leaving the tape in after another knot has 
been tied at the other extremity. 

Thus a seton is established, and a depending orifice is instituted. 
The tape will act as a drain to the morbid secretion, while the irritation 
produced by it will also remove the callous lining of the pipe. A 
healthy action will thereby be established ; and so soon as the inferior 
wound discharges a full stream of thick, creamy pus, the seton may be 
cut out, with a conviction that its office is fulfilled. 



A GUARDED SETON NEEDLE. 



THii bhTo.-i Nii^DLi! PROTRUDED, AND SECURED 'WITHIN TUE HANDLE BY MEANS OP A SCRE'W. 

The screw being loosened, the button is struck, and the sharp needle shoots forward, cutting its way 
through any interposing obstacle. 

However, never turn animals afflicted with fistulous withers or with 
poll evil out to grass. In the last disease, the motion of the head, the 
outstretching of the neck, and movement of the jaws occasion agony, 
and in the first instance, the necessity for perpetual action entails so 
much misery as soon renders the life worthless. The horse which is 
not worth the best of food in the best of stables, should not be doomed 
to a life of starvation and of torture. It is the shame of society that 
rich men are tempted by a few pounds to dispose of the creature which 
has been maimed in their service. Wounds endured when obeying the 
wishes of the master should endear the slave unto his lord. In the case 
of the willing steed, the law is reversed. The owner blemishes ; and 
instead of nursing the wounded life, he disposes of it. The injured 
animal is sold to the first purchaser for so much as the damaged article 
will fetch. 

FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

This is a most serious evil, rather than a quickly-killing disease. The 
animal which is thus afflicted may endure for years ; but each meal con- 
sumed and each day survived rates as a period of misery. When it is 
considered how much the happiness of the lower order of beings de- 
pends on merely feeding and living, it will be at once apparent how 
much the horse has lost when all enjoyment has departed from eating ; 
when mere existence is embittered by being a prolongation of the suf- 
fering. The digestion becomes deranged, because the saliva, or a 



FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 395 

valuable secretion imperative to the proper performance of the function, 
is absent; while every movement is a pain occasioned by the agony of a 
diseased stomach and the anguish attendant upon a fistulous sore. The 
wretched creature, in this condition, speedily becomes an object of dis- 
gust to the most humane master; and, according to the convenient 
morality of modern times, is therefore sold to the highest bidder. Pur- 
chased only for the work which remains in the carcass, a fearful doom 
lies before the sick and debilitated quadruped. It rapidly sinks lower 
and lower, at each stage of its descent the food growing more scanty 
as the labor becomes more exhausting. 

The parotid duct is the tube by which the saliva secreted by the 
gland is, during the act of mastication, conveyed into the mouth and 
mingled with the food. The parotid gland lies at the spot where the 
neck joins the jaw ; within the interior of that body numerous fine 
hollow vessels connect and unite. These at each junction become larger 
and fewer in number, till at length they all terminate in one channel, 
which is the duct immediately about to be considered. It leaves the 
gland and travels for some space upon the inner side of the jaw ; after 
which it curls under the inferior border of the bone and runs in front of 
the large masseter muscle of the horse's cheek. 

Its injury is frequently occasioned by hay-seeds or particles of food, 
during the process of comminution, entering the open mouth of the 
duct; these, subsequently becoming swollen, prevent the free egress of 
the saliva. Tlie secretion, nevertheless, goes forward and accumulates 
within the tube, which it greatly distends. A confined secretion pro- 
duces the most exquisite agony. The 
motion of the jaw stimulates the gland to 
pour forth its fluid; thus every mouthful 
which the animal is forced to eat not only 
is the cause of suffering, but likewise occa- 
sions additional pressure to a channel 
already enlarged to bursting, and which 
at length bursts. 

Another provocative is calculus, or 
stone, which is sometimes taken from the 
cheeks of horses, they being of enormous the parotid duct distended dy a sali- 

VARY CALCULUS. 

comparative magnitude ; the natural tube 

would not admit a pea. Concretions have been removed from this nar- 
row passage as large as a pullet's egg. Such an obstacle not only 
impedes the flow of saliva, but produces additional anguish by the dis- 
tention it occasions, and by the hinderance so hard a substance offers to 
every motion of the animal jaw during the necessary period of mastication. 




396 



FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 



Every puncture made into the substance of the duct, and evei'y rup- 
ture of the canal, speedily becomes fistulous sores. The saliva constantly 
pours through the opening thus instituted ; the healing pi-ocess is thereby 
prevented, and the edges of the wound rapidly become callous. It is, 
however, painful to be obliged to state that the stable fork, in the hand 
of an intemperate groom, is the instrument by which these Dunctures are 
too frequently occasioned. 

Gentlemen when engaging people to attend upon their animals should 
always be very particular concerning temper. An irritable person, how- 
ever smart he may appear, is obviously disqualified for such an occupa- 
tion. A man of an evil temper should never be engaged. Still, the great 
majority of present grooms are rather conspicuous for an exuberance of 
conceit, than remarkable for any openness of countenance. Smartness 
may gratify the pride of the master; but it is difficult to comprehend in 
what manner it possibly can benefit his horse. 

There is an old proverb which, being "the condensed wisdom of 
ages," teaches that "the master's eye fattens the steed." Most of 
modern masters dislike nothing so much as trouble. The stable is given 
over to the servant. No Eastern despot is so absolute as the groom in 
his dominions : he kicks and abuses its inhabitants at his pleasure. If 
the free exercise of his will occasions injury, a lie is easily invented and 
readily believed by the lazy superior. All that comes into or passes out 
of the building pays toll to the invested ruler. Five per cent, is levied 
upon the hay and corn merchant ; the dung is sold as a legitimate per- 
quisite ; the bills of the harness and the 
coach makers are taxed one shilling in the 
pound by the most ignorant groom, and 
often much higher by the properly initiated. 
Thus the idle man pays dearly for his ease. 
There is no luxury so expensive as a want 
of wholesome energy. 

The process of mastication causes the 
saliva to be secreted. At each motion of 
the jaw it is squirted forth with violence; 
every drop of the fluid passes through the 
false opening — no portion finds its way into 
the mouth. The running of the stream 
down the cheek wears away the hair, 
while the absence of a valuable constitu- 
ent toward perfect digestion occasions the diet not to nourish the body. 
The animal loses flesh, and quickly assumes a miserable appearance, 
which makes the proprietor long to rid his sight of so pitiable an object. 




A HORSE, HAVING A PISTULOUS PAROTID 
DUCT, IN THE ACT OF EATING. 



FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 397 

The cure for this disease was aptly illustrated by Mr. Gowing, the 
excellent veterinary surgeon of Camden Town. That gentleman made 
an adliesive fluid, by either saturating the strongest spirit of wine with 
gum mastic, or dissolving India-rubber in sulphuric ether. Then, when 
the horse was not eating, he pared off the hardened edges of the wound 
till blood issued therefrom. He subsequently allowed the bleeding to 
stop, and placed over the orifice a piece of strained India-rubber. 
Over that he put a thin layer of cotton ; fastened one end of the cotton 
to the hair of the cheek by means of the adhesive preparation. That 
being dry, he tightened the cotton and glued down the opposite ex- 
tremity. Next he attached another layer of cotton, and subsequently 
another. Afterward he fastened more cotton, some of it crossways ; 
and, having added as many layers as would make a good body, saturates 
the whole with the adhesive solution before alluded to. 

The hair affords a good ground to which any other substance can be 
fastened; but it is rendered better by being thoroughly washed with 
soft soap and warm water. The ablution deprives the skin of the horse 
of its naturally unctuous secretion, and permits the adhesive application 
a better chance. 

The horse should be allowed no food which necessitates mastication. 
The head should be fastened to the pillar-reins during the process of 
cure. Thin gruel only should be presented while treatment is progress- 
ing, and that should be continued until the covering falls off. Should 
the wound not be healed, allow a couple of days to elapse; but give no 
solid food. Permit the horse to rest on refuse tan — not straw, which 
might be eaten — during all this time. Afterward renew the attempt, 
and repeat it again if necessary — though the first trial generally suc- 
ceeds. 

Before concluding, it may be well to arm the reader against those 
practices generally adopted by horse doctors. These practices consist 
in the use of the red-hot budding iron, which is among them a very 
popular application to a fistulous parotid duct. The theory which in- 
duces this resort is, a belief that the heated iron induces an eschar, and 
the wound closes before the crust falls off. Red-hot iron is, however, 
far more disposed to destroy substance than to favor growth ; and, 
probably, its curative properties could have gained faith among no other 
class. Possibly there exists no other body which would credit that, to 
burn a hole larger, was the best way to close it. Another artifice is to 
inject caustic lotions up the duct, and thereby occasion the gland to 
slough out. Against such cruelty the author is pleased to think little 
need be said. The operation, when successful, causes so much irritation 
as endangers the life; for the body of the gland is permeated by so 



398 PHLEBITIS. 

many and such important vessels as render the termination always very 
dubious. 



PHLEBITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE VEIN. 

Formerly it was the custom to bleed horses for everything and for 
nothing. It was not even suspected that a creature which exists only to 
labor unto the limit of possibility is far more likely to be the victim of 
debility than of repletion. It never occurred to any master that his 
wretched animal wanted blood putting into it rather than abstracting 
the smallest quantity of blood from it. However, formerly bleeding 
was a favorite resort with the apothecary, and the old veterinary 
surgeon seems to have followed the bad example. Aged people have 
informed the writer that they remember the time when, on a Sunday 
morning, a long shed was filled with agricultural horses standing in a 
row. These victims were all waiting to be bled. The veterinary sur- 
geon's assistant used to take the fleam, and to open a vein in the first 
animal's neck. Then he would proceed to the second ; and thus, in 
turn, he would open the jugulars of the entire number. No account 
was taken of the quantity of blood lost ; that flowed forth till the last 
had been operated upon, when all the creatures stood simultaneously 
draining forth their lives. 

The veterinary surgeon's assistant subsequently returned, and pinned 
up the orifice of the first horse : then he went and performed that office 
for the succeeding animal. Thus he, a second time, progressed down 
the row, pinning up as he proceeded; and the poor horses often tottered 
before he came. All this was done for a human fancy : man thought 
the loss of blood, at spring and autumn, beneficial to all kinds of life. 
The writer has heard of old ladies who were very skillful in bleeding 
cats. Most cats, however, resist such an application of medical talent ; 
not so the horse : this animal submits itself patiently to the master's will. 
The creature seems to recognize that it has no right to exist except by 
the permission of its owner. There is no living being which acknowl- 
edges so abject a dependence. 

In return it is made a sport of the idlest whims. Hence horses, after 
bleeding, were all thought to be much benefited. They were expected 
to perform greater labor and to continue in sounder health. In vain did 
the disease visit the stable more frequently ; to no purpose was dimin- 
ished capability displayed. The ungrateful bodies of the "plaguy beasts" 
were blamed, which would go wrong even after mortal science had ex- 
pended its wealth upon them. Man never doubted his own wisdom ; he 
never questioned his own conduct ; and it is astonishing the quantity of 



PHLEBITIS. 399 

prejudice which is from year to year perpetuated for the want of a small 
amount of so cheap au article as mental inquiry. 

The worst of the evil still remains to be told. The creatures, being 
bled, were esteemed so greatly benefited as to require no subsequent 
attention. Phlebitis was consequently, in other days, a rather common 
affection. If neglected, the disease may terminate in death. In cases 
aggravated by mistaken measures, the disorder mounts to the brain, and 
occasions awful agonies. Taken early and properly administered to, this 
disposition is easily arrested. It was formerly wrongly treated, and was 
traced to an erroneous origin. Phlebitis was, to the perfect satisfaction 
of learned judges seated on the bench, attributed to the surgeon's want 
of care. So serious an evil was imagined to be caused by culpable neg- 
lect during a trivial operation. It was thought to have been provoked 
by the use of a foul instrument, or by employing anything else to strike 
a fleam than a properly-made blood-stick. 

Experiments, however, which were instituted at the Royal Veterinary 
College, have proved that no want of care, during the performance of 
bleeding, can provoke the disorder. Wretched horses, in that establish- 
ment, have been punctured with dirty, rusty, blunt, and jagged fleams ; 
all manner of blood-sticks have been employed in every description of 
way. These have been struck violently and tapped in the gentlest 
fashion. Every possible sort of pinning up has been adopted ; but the 
utmost endeavor of intentional perversion could not produce inflamma- 
tion of the vein. There appears to be only one ascertained cause : that 
is, bleed ; do not tie up the head, but turn it into a field, or present fod- 
der to be eaten off the ground, and the animal will have phlebitis. The 
pendulous position of the head and the motion of the jaws alone seem 
capable of startuig inflammation in the jugular vein. Therefore, should 
the reader ever permit a horse to be bled — which, save in extreme cases, 
is perfectly unnecessary — let him remember to place the animal subse- 
quently in the stable, to tie the halter to the rack for twenty-four hours, 
and, during the same space, to abstain from allowing any food. These 
injunctions, however, do not refer to the bleedings sometimes adopted to 
counteract acute disease. 

There is one circumstance which should always be well considered 
before any horse is bled : Certain animals have a constitutional predis- 
position toward this peculiar form of disease. The horse whose vein 
shall inflame no man can, by sign, mark, or investigation, pick from a 
herd. It is, however, an ascertained fact that particular animals, of no 
fixed breed, and apparently characterized by no recognized state of body, 
have a mighty tendency to exhibit this particular disorder. The horse 
may appear unexceptionable as regards health ; but, nevertheless, strike 



400 PHLEBITIS. 

it with a fleam ov puncture it with a lancet, and phlebitis will undoubt- 
edly be generated ; none of the usual precautions can always prevent 
the misfortune. Such predisposition evidently depends on a determinate 
condition of system which science has hitherto failed to recognize. 

This fact, or eccentricity in the constitutions of isolated horses, ought 
to be generally known. Men have recovered heavy damages in courts 
of law, and blameless veterinary surgeons have been ruined, by circum- 
stances over which the utmost stretch of human precaution could possi- 
))ly exercise no control. However, a more extended knowledge concern- 
ing the real origin of this disorder may do some good, since it will guard 
juries from delivering wrongful verdicts, and may tend to check that 
love of venous depletion which is still too prevalent with ignorant horse 
owners. 

There was formerly a great diversity of opinion concerning a supposed 
eccentricity in the facts observed during this disease. If a horse was 
bled in the neck, and subsequently exhibited phlebitis, the brain became 
affected. If an animal was depleted from the fore leg, and displayed 
the disease, the heart became involved. In one case, the disorder pro- 
ceeded from the center of circulation ; and in the other, it mounted 
directly toward the organ. A great many hypotheses were published to 
explain or to account for this imaginary peculiarity. Much nonsense 
was spoken, and more was written, to point out the real cause of an 
imaginary difference. Yet, calmly viewed, the seeming diversity appears 
to agree with the commonest law of nature. Phlebitis always closes the 
vessel at the seat of injury. The disease, therefore, in each case, is pre- 
vented from descending, and consequently ascends above the orifice — 
the only peculiarity being the relative situations of the structures in- 
volved. 

This affection is most common after blood has been taken from the 
neck. That seeming preference for a particular part may, however, be 
nothing more than a circumstance dependent upon the greater number 
of animals which have their jugulars opened. Were the brachial or the 
saphena veins punctured as frequently as the vessel which carries the 
blood from the brain, the apparent difference might appear in the oppo- 
site direction. However, from whichever vessel the depletion is effected, 
always tie the quadruped's head up, and present no food, A stall is to 
be preferred to a loose box, as the confined space is more likely to pre- 
vent action. Motion is the source of all danger. This fact was aptly 
illustrated by an anecdote which used to be related by the late Mr. Lis- 
ton, the eminent surgeon. In his lecture, that gentleman surprised his 
class by stating that the last person whom he bled perished of phlebitis. 
Bleeding is the most simple operation in human surgery. Most surgeons 



PHLEBITIS. 



401 



leave this office to the apothecary ; consequently it was rather a conde- 
scension in one who deservedly ranked so high in his profession to stoop 
to such an act. What, therefore, could possibly cause disease to follow 
the operation, when performed by him who was accustomed to surgery 
upon its grandest scale ? 

The cause was soon explained. The person operated upon chanced 
to be a lunatic. This insane individual embraced the notion that the 
healing process was much favored by constant motion ; consequently he 
kept on flexing and extending his arm with all the violence which is 
natural to the demented. In vain was every eSbrt made to persuade 
him from so mad an action. He clung v.'ith extraordinary pertinacity to 
his unwholesome theory. On the following day, Mr. Liston was sur- 
prised to find his patient in bed, but still moving the arm in which disease 
had already declared itself Measures were taken to keep the linib quiet, 
but it was found impossible to accomplish this in a satisfactory manner ; 
and when Mr. Liston again called, the patient was no more ! 

A vein being about to inflame, the earliest intimation of the fact is 
given by the separation of the lips of the wound, while through the 
opening drains a small quantity of a thin discharge. Should this warn- 
ing excite no attention, a round and hard swelling appears. That may 
be like a hazel-nut in size, or it may resemble half a chestnut in magni- 
tude ; and this is soon followed by a swollen state of the vein superior 
to the orifice. 

Then supervenes the sec- 
ond stage of the disorder. 
Unhealthy abscesses are 
formed along the course of 
the vein. As these mature, 
they burst, and send forth 
an unsightly and filthy liquid 
resembling thin, contamina- 
ted pus. On examination, 
these tumors are found to 
be united. They penetrate to the interior of the vessel, and are joined 
together by numerous si- 
nuses. They literally con- 
stitute so many holes in the 
neck. 

If no attention be now 
paid to the aggravated 
symptoms, worse speedily 
ensues. In the direction 

26 




A HORSE WITH PHLEBITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE VEIN', IX 
THE SECOND STAGE. 




THE THIRD STAGE OF PIILEUITIS. 




THE TWISTED SUTURE. 



402 PHLEBITIS. 

formerly indicated the vessel feels hard under the skin. Supposing this 
sign to be neglected, unhealthy pus issues in quantity from the wounds 
and soils the neck. This secretion is soon converted into a dark, impure, 
and fetid discharge resembling decayed blood. The horse grows dull 
and stupid ; the inflammation ultimately affects the brain, when the suf- 
fering and the life are extinguished in the violent agonies of phrenitis. 

The cure is easy, but everything depends upon the energy of him who 

undertakes it. When the lips of the wound which have been brought 

together by means of the twisted suture — as the "pin with tow wrapped 

round it" is professionally termed — display a tendency 

to separate, and, instead of being dry, appear moist, 

let no prejudice incline toward the ancient practice of 

fomenting and poulticing the injury. Without the loss 

of a moment in hesitation, withdraw the pin ; remove 

the substance which was twined round it, and apply a 

moderate-sized blister immediately over and around the 

puncture. Should the disease have ascended up the 

neck, still rub in a blister; only a proportionate amount 

A pin is'firsrstuck ^^ surfacc must then be acted upon. If the case be 

thrwound;" a 'poi-- ^^ bad as possible, and yet the animal is alive, still a 

tion of tow, thread, blistpv ia indipatpf] 

CUrcompiete'ai"; With the progrcss of the disease a larger space 
L^'LsttycUpped oft!" should always be subjected to irritation, so as to cover 
every part the most active imagination could suppose 
to be involved. One blister, moreover, will not suffice ; another, and 
another, and another must be employed, till every sign of disorder has 
vanished. They must, however, be applied in quicker succession as the 
symptoms are more urgent, while a greater interval may be allowed 
between each when the affection is less serious. In the worst stage of 
phlebitis, another blister must be put over the part upon which the irri- 
tation of the first has not entirely ceased to act. In the second stage, 
the surface must have been barely healed before another vesicatory is 
resorted to. During the primary symptom, a single application fre- 
quently is sufficient ; or, at most, two blisters generally suffice. 

When the vessel assumes the corded state, a blister. can effect no more 
than to check the progress of the disorder ; no agency, however, which 
science has placed at the disposal of man can restore the uses of the vein. 
The vessel is lost, and lost forever. If a foul and black discharge issue 
from the openings, insert a director and enlarge the wounds, joining the 
holes by slitting up the sinuses which unite them ; but do not cut the 
entire extent of the hardened vessel, as in that case you may be deluged 
in blood. The employment of the knife and the free use of blisters 



PHLEBITIS. 403 

constitute the chief means toward the cure of phlebitis. The sinuses 
must be laid open. The probe should then be most patiently employed, 
for every sinus must be slit up. This may be done at once, when the 
hardness indicates the vessel to be closed above the part which the in- 
cision interferes with. To such an extent the knife may always be 
employed, while blisters after blisters are used, regardless of the severe 
wounds over which they are applied. 

Much relief is afforded by the large and pendulous incision, through 
which the corruption freely finds an exit. Some horses, however, from 
the pain occasioned by the raw and inflamed condition of the neck, will 
not allow the blister to be rubbed in after the ordinary fashion, especially 
when the irritation caused by the former application has not thoroughly 
subsided. In cases of this sort, do not employ the twitch or resort to 
greater restraints. Exercise your reason. Regard the painful aspect 
of the wounds. Ask yourself how you should enjoy the hard hand of a 
groom violently scrubbed over such a part, were the soreness upon your 
own body. Act upon the response. Procure a long-haired brush, such 
as pastry-cooks use to egg over their more delicate manufactures. Go 
then into the next stall. Speak kindly to a sick inferior that is at your 
mercy. Have the creature led forth, and, with the brush just described, 
smear the part with oil of cantharides or liquid blister. The extract of 
the Spanish fly does not occasion immediate agony, and the application 
of oil will cool or soothe the anger of the wounds. 

With the jugular vein inflamed, the horse, during the period of treat- 
ment, should consume no solid food. Hay tea, sloppy mashes, and well- 
made gruel should constitute its diet. However, the gruel must not be 
given in such quantities or made so thick as the same substance would 
be allowed to a healthy horse. Gruel may not be very sustaining to the 
human being, but it is nothing more than the oat divested of the shell 
or refuse part. To the equine species such food, whether given dry or 
boiled in water, is highly stimulating; and, as fever invariably accompa- 
nies inflammation, oats in any form evidently are contraindicated. Should 
the animal, however, become ravenous, a portion of potatoes, being first 
peeled, may be boiled to a mash. Some water and a sufficiency of pol- 
lard ought to be added, and the whole presented in such a state as requires 
no mastication, but in a condition that will allow the mixture to be drawn 
between the teeth. The same thing may be done with carrots and with 
turnips, only all mashed roots, except potatoes, should be passed through 
a colander, and moistened with some of the water in which they are 
boiled. 

Any animal, during treatment, should be placed in a loose box. No 
creature should be turned into the field. It is cheaper to pasture than 



404 BROKEN KNEES. 

to stable a horse ; but the constant motion of the legs, as the field is 
traversed, is injurious to the punctured vein of the limbs, while the pen- 
dulous state of the head and the perpetual movement of the jaws are 
most prejudicial when venesection has been performed upon the neck. The 
stable is, in every point of view, the cheapest and the best residence 
The head of the animal must be tied to the rack throughout the day; 
while, at night, the halter may be lengthened, permitting the creature 
to lie down ; but the floor should be littered with tan, as straw might 
be eaten. 

Let the horse remain thus for six weeks subsequent to the completion 
of a cure. Then give gentle exercise to the extent which it can be 
borne — the quantity being small, and the pace very slow at first, but 
gradually augmented. This exercise should be maintained for three 
months. The animal may afterward return to slow work ; but if the 
neck is the place affected, it must not wear a collar or be harnessed to 
the shafts for the next six months. At the end of that time the horse 
may return to its customary employment ; but, if ridden or driven, it is 
always well to bear in mind the late affliction, and to grant more than 
the usual time for the performance of the journey. At the expiration 
of the year, the smaller veins, having become enlarged, have adapted 
themselves to the loss which the circulation has sustained, and the horse 
may resume full work. 

For the first year, gruel, crushed and scalded oats, with two bundles 
of cut grass per day, should constitute the diet. The manger should be 
heightened, and the halter be so arranged as to prevent the head being 
much lowered. Do all in your power to render useless violent mastica- 
tion ; and, as the horse never chews when the operation is unnecessary, 
the animal will obviously second your endeavors. 

At the expiration of twelve months the animal which has lost a vein 
may be sold, and, in law, has been accounted sound. Such a blemish, 
however, is far from a recommendation ; in this case law and common 
sense may be at variance. The reader, therefore, is advised never to 
purchase a nag in such a condition without insisting upon a special war- 
ranty, in which it is provided that the animal is to be taken back should 
the loss of a vessel be productive of any evil effects within the space of 
one twelvemonth. 

BROKEN KNEES. 

These accidents aff'ect the exterior of the central joint of the fore legs. 
They may be very trivial or very serious : they may simply ruffle the hair 
or scratch the cuticle covering the integument ; the same cause may, 
however, remove the hair and lay bare the cutis. Moreover, the wound 



BROKEN KNEES. 405 

is often aggravated by the nature of the road on Avhich the animal is 
traveling. A fall upon a very rough surface might even destroy a por- 
tion of the skin, and deprive more or less of the cellular tissue of vitality. 

BROKEN KNEES OP VARIOUS DEGREES OF INTENSITY. 





The hair rnfflecl and the The hair removed and the The skin destroyed and the 

cuticle scratched. true skin exposed. cellular tissue injured. 

Accompanying such accidents there is generally some amount of con- 
tusion. When it falls, the horse is in motion, and the impetus lends 
violence to the descent. Probably the animal is being ridden when it 
comes to the ground. The weight of the blow is not only then pro- 
portioned to the heavy body of the horse and the rate at which it is 
progressing, but its effect is augmented by the load upon its back. These 
considerations render broken knees the proper dread of every horse 
proprietor. An animal may stumble and come down which, prior to the 
mishap, would have been sold cheap for several hundreds. It may be 
raised from the ground with almost all its worth demolished. The nature 
of the hurt is not, however, always shown at 6rst. The chief dangei", 
in broken knees, lies in the accompanying contusion. The horse which 
rises without a hair ruffled, but which fell with violence, is always, with 
informed persons, a cause of considerable anxiety. Contusion is to be 
more dreaded in its consequences than is the largest wound when devoid 
of anything approaching to a bruise. 

The reason why contusion is thus gravely regarded is because, when 
that occurs in severity, the vitality of all the coverings to the knee is 
destroyed, and, in very bad cases, even the bones are materially injured. 
All dead parts must be cast from a living body ; and no man can pred- 
icate how deep maybe the injury, or how important may be the structures 
which shall be opened, when the slough takes place. 

Proprietors of horses thus injured are commonly very earnest in their 
solicitations for a professional opinion as to the extent and probable 
consequences of the accident. No certain judgment can, however, be 
pronounced, nor should one be given. Any surgical calculation, not- 
withstanding it may be most prudently qualified, is apt to be miscon- 
strued by the anxiety of distress. The most guarded hint at a proba- 



406 BROKEN KNEES. 

bility of recovery is too likely to be seized upon as a positive guarantee 
of perfect restoration ; and the possible evils which may have been 
alluded to, confusion causes the individual not to remember. Therefore 
silence is wisdom in these cases, however slight the broken knee may 
appear in the first instance. 

Broken knees are principally caused by the imprudence of him in whom 
authority is invested. Certain people imagine the public admire the man 
who chastises a horse. Such persons slash away for every trivial error. 
Every imaginary fault is punished with the whip, which too often curls 
around parts that should be respected. The animal, pained and fright- 
ened, thinks only of the slasher behind it, and entirely disregards the 
path upon which its eyes should be directed. The cutting is incessant, 
and the horse's pace is incautiously fast. An impediment is encountered ; 
the animal trips ; it is cast to the ground with violence, while the man 
is probably rendered fitter for a hospital than for the continuance of his 
travels. 

Other riders and drivers always visit with severity the slightest indica- 
tion of weak limbs. A sudden drop or a false step is, to such people, the 
signal for the reins to be jagged, the voice to be raised, and the whip to 
be freely exercised upon all parts of the animal's body, but mostly about 
the face and ears. The man likes to behold the poor creature shake its 
head, and loves to imagine he is then teaching the terrified quadruped 
to be careful. Equine pupils, no more than human scholars, are to 
be tutored by barbarity, which may slay the reason long before it can 
instruct the mind. Composure is imperative to the acquirement of any 
knowledge. Thrashing calls forth terror, and alarm is synonymous with 
confusion of mind. The horse is susceptible of a fear which humanity, 
happily, finds it difficult to conceive ; and how far such a creature is 
calculated to be educated by cruelty, the intelligent reader is left to infer. 

Could the animal argue, it might plead that the weakness objected to 
was caused by exertion made in man's service ; that the stumbling gait 
was consequent upon no negligence on its part ; that it afforded the 
beaten wretch no pleasure to have the knees broken, but, if the quadru- 
ped might profess a choice, it would prefer not falling down, etc. etc. If 
such pleas were properly considered, they perhaps might still the turbu- 
lence of the punisher. 

The great majority of these injuries are consequent upon the prejudice 
or thoughtlessness of mankind. Popular admiration is, in this country, 
much in favor of a good crest. Every animal, no matter how nature 
may have formed the neck, must carry a good head. The rider, there- 
fore, drags upon the bridle, while the form of nearly every gentleman's 
harness-horse is distorted by the bearing-rein. The constraint thus 



BROKEN KNEES. 



40T 



enforced not only obliges additional muscular action, but it disqualifies 
the animal to see the ground. In England there should be no objection 
to a blind horse, since such of the species as have eyes are, by the preju- 
dices of society, seldom permitted to use them. The horse, being urged 
on when virtually blindfold, must of necessity stumble upon any unusual 
impediment being encountered. Such an accident shows no fault in the 
quadruped ; but the man is truly responsible for those consequences which 
his folly has induced. 

When a horse stumbles, never raise your voice — the creature dreads 
its master's chiding ; never jag the reins — the mouth of the horse is far 
more sensitive than the human lips ; never use the lash — the horse is so 
timid that the slightest correction overpowers its reasoning faculties. 
Speak to the creature ; reassure the palpitating frame ; seek to restore 
those perceptions which will form the best guard against any repetition 
of the faulty action. When the legs are weak, the greater should be the 
care of him who holds the reins. No cruelty can restore the lost tonicity 
of the limbs ; therefore all slashing is utterly thrown away. If the 
reader regard his own safety, let him not, when riding, hold the head up, 
or, when driving, sanction the employment of a bearing-rein. No inhu- 
manity can convert an animal with a ewe neck into the creature with a 
naturally lofty crest. The disguise of such a defect as a head badly 
placed on the neck is an impossibility. Therefore, if you are desirous 
of a well-carried head, think of it when making the purchase. Pay 
something more, and any kind of quadruped is obtainable ; but be above 
the meanness which purchases for a low figure, and then endeavors to 
palm off its cheap article as a jewel procured at the highest price. 

When a horse has been down, never judge of the 
injury by the first appearance. While the animal 
stands in the yard, order the groom to fetch a pail, 
with milk-warm water and a large sponge. With 
these he is to clean the knees — not after the usual 
coarse and filthy fashion now universal ; not by first 
sopping the part, and then squeezing the soiled sponge 
into the pail whence more fluid is to be abstracted. 
The dabbing and smearing a wound simply irritates 
it ; and the dirt, having all entered into the pail, the 
fluid is rendered unsuited to after cleanly purposes. 

To perform the office properly, the knee should 
not be touched. The sponge should be saturated, 
then squeezed dry above the seat of injury. The 
water thus flows in a full stream over the part, and, 
by the force of gravity, carries away any loose dirt that may be upon 




THE PROPER WAT TO WASH 
A BROKEN KNEE. 



408 BROKEN KNEES. 

the surface. Sopping, dabbing, wiping, and smearing occasion pain, 
and can i-emove nothing which may have entered the sliin and which is 
protected from the action of the sponge by a covering of hair ; whereas 
by the plan recommended the dirt is removed, the part is not debilitated, 
neither is its natural energy destroyed. The last drop of water, more- 
over, is as clean as was the first, and the animal is not irritated immedi- 
ately prior to a surgical examination. 

The wound being cleansed, a certain time should be allowed to elapse 
for the horse to recover its composure. It should return to the stable, 
have a feed of corn, and be watei'ed. Then the real business com- 
mences. The animal should be gently approached ; its condition should 
be observed. If any nervousness is exhibited, the person ought to re- 
tire, and a further pause should be allowed. If, on the second visit, 
any unusual symptoms are displayed, have the quadruped led into the 
yard and blindfolded. Let a man take up the other fore leg, when the 
knee may be examined with safety. 

Place the palm of the hand over the joint. Hold it there to ascer- 
tain if any heat or swelling is to be detected. Should there be swell- 
ing, make gradual and gentle pressure upon it with the thumb or one 
finger. If, upon suddenly removing the hand, an indent is conspicuous, 
it argues considerable effusion, and justifies fear as to the result. Should 
neither heat nor swelling be remarked, further pressure is to be made 
with the thumb upon the knee. The force should be gentle at first and 
gradually increased. If the action is sustained well, or even moderately 
endured, it allows of hope being entertained. But should the horse 
attempt to rear upon the first impress of the thumb, the result is very 
dubious. The absence of agony is far from anything approaching to a 
positive proof, as bone and synovial membrane, tendon and ligament, do 
not take on acute inflammation when first injured ; but, from the response 
thus elicited, a fair inference as to the probability may be drawn. 

Should the skin be lacerated, the probe must be employed. Such 
injuries are very deceptive. They may be much more extensive than 
the size of the wound would indicate. The probe being of metal, ought 
not to be thrust violently against every exposed part. This kind of 
proceeding can effect no good. The probe should be held lightly be- 
tween the thumb and fore finger ; no pressure should be made upon it 
— the instrument ought rather to fall of its own gravity than be forced 
into the flesh. A thin piece of wire can be readily driven into soft 
structures; but where an actual division exists, no opposition necessi- 
tating force will be encountered. 

Broken knees always happen when the horse is in motion. The 
onward impulse is not by the fall immediately destroyed ; but after the 



BROKEN KNEES. 



409 



horse is down there always exists an impetus which has a tendency to 
propel the body forward. Should the skin of the knees be divided by 
the fall, the after-force obviously cannot affect the upper line of such 
division ; but the lower edge of skin will present an acute obstacle to 
the roughened ground, and will, by the grating of the body, in all prob- 
ability be rent from its attachments. When the animal rises, the action 
and the elasticity natural to the integument will occasion the torn por- 
tion of the skin which has been driven backward to once more assume 
its original position. By this means a kind of bag or purse is formed 
upon the knee. Grit, mud, and all kinds of impurities may be retained 
and concealed within this pouch. These will be disposed to irritate the 
structure with which they are in contact ; suppuration is certain to be 
established, and sad consequences have followed such sacs not being 
early detected. 

Such a cavity having been discovered, the next object is to ascertain 
its dimensions. That is done by gradually moving the probe along its 
sides. Should it be small, it will be sufficient that a hole be made 
through its most depending poi'tion with a sharp seton needle. If it 
be large, the needle should be armed with a piece of tape knotted at 
one end. The sac being punctured, the needle is to be drawn through 
the opening, the tape being left in the cavity, and a seton is thus formed. 





PROBING THE SAC OF A BROKEN KNEE. 



A SETON BEINO INSERTED THROUGH 
THE SAC OF THE KNEE. 



The seton should be knotted at the other end, and moved its entire 
length every night and morning. It will prevent all premature attempts 
to heal, will stimulate the soft parts to suppuration, and will remove the 
dirt, as the tape affords a guide to the secretion. When inserting a 
seton into the knee, always use a large curved needle. The size of the 
instruments should never be regulated by any foreign standard, but 
should always be proportioned to the magnitude of the patient and the 
intention of the operator. 



410 BROKEN KNEES. 

Three days subsequent to the full establishment of suppuration, cut 
off one of the knots, and, laying hold of the other knot, withdraw the 
seton. Its advantages by this time are gained, and its longer stay, by 
hardening the opening through which it passed, would occasion lasting 
blemish. 

The reason of its insertion is thus explained. Where foreign matter 
is confined, no wound will heal ; the orifice may close, but soon after 
abscess forms. This process is repeated until the suffering is long pro- 
tracted. Danger is generally proportioned to the duration of the evil, 
where wounds not of a mortal character are concerned. By the agency 
of the seton, the foreign matter is removed and the healing process 
thereby considerably expedited. After the above plan, all blemish may 
be lost by the expiration of the third month, and the once injured knee 
restored to its uses, being as fine as any other part of the body. 

Everything being accomplished as it is here directed, no attempt must 
in the first instance be made to poke out any particle of dirt which the 
probe may touch. The bagging skin being divided by the seton having 
been established in the sac, no further thought need, for the present, be 
given to a common but most vexatious attendant upon the customary 
treatment for broken knees. 

The animal should be returned to its usual stall and have the head 
"racked up." Some cold water should then be procured, with every 
quart of which two ounces of tincture of arnica should be blended. A 
portion of this fluid ought, with a clean sponge of moderate size, to be 
poured into a saucer ; the groom must have strict orders to take the 
sponge, and, having saturated it with the fluid, to squeeze it quite dry, 
allowing the liquor to run over the injured knee — after the manner pre- 
viously illustrated, as washing the wound. Two men are required for 
this office, which should be pei'formed every half hour throughout the 
day and night for half a week. The injury being thus made continuously 
wet, the cold produced by evaporation keeps down inflammation, while 
the arnica is a potent remedy for bruises and all kinds of contusions or 
lacerations. 

If at the expiration of the period named no swelling appears, and sup- 
puration seems to be thoroughly established by means of the seton, the 
halter may be released to a great extent, a cradle being merely fixed 
upon the horse's neck ; the animal will thereby be permitted to lie down 
and to enjoy its natural rest. 

But should the joint be much enlarged, should the part have become 
acutely sensitive, while the horse resolutely refuses to bear any weight 
upon the injured limb, then withdraw the seton, give the animal two 
pots of stout per day, and all the oats mingled with old beans which it 



BROKEN KNEES. 411 

will consume. Untie the head and place the horse in slings; employ 
the arnica lotion night and day, until the slough is thrown off, which, 
having taken place, change the liquid application for the solution of 
chloride of zinc — one scruple to the pint of water — and continue to 
employ this last lotion after precisely the same manner as has been pre- 
viously directed. 

Probabilities, however remote they may seem to be, are here endeav- 
ored to be anticipated; although the author's experience cannot recall 
a single case where the arnica lotion has been used with proper assiduity, 
and any but the most happy results have followed. When an animal has 
fallen violently to the earth, and has been, in the first instance, shown to 
the writer with much tumefaction and excessive tenderness, a slough has 
in exceptional cases followed ; but never has the enlargement or the 
sensitiveness increased under the proper use of the arnica lotion. The 
slough, moreover, in such instances, has been superficial, only entailing 
loss of hair, and never occasioning open joint. 

All horses are exposed to these accidents for the reasons already 
stated. Whenever such misfortunes occur, employ the arnica lotion. 
Should the skin be divided, still use the arnica lotion until copious sup- 
puration is established. The secretion once seen, resort to the lotion 
formed of chloride of zinc and water — one grain to the ounce — which 
operates most marvelously upon all suppurating wounds. 

No absolute period can be stated which a case of broken knees, when 
severe, ought to occupy. The danger, however, is generally passed by the 
expiration of a week, and the cure commonly entails loss of services for 
a couple of months. 





AX OROANIZED KNEE, ENI^UIXG AFTER THE APPEARANCE OP THE KNEE SUBSEQUENT 

A LONG COURSE OF THE ORDINARY TO THE HEALING OP THE WORST CASE THE 

TREATMENT. AUTHOR EVER HAD UNDER HIS CARE. 

When adopting the foregoing mode of treatment, no bandages are to 
be employed. Such wrappers only augment the heat inherent in every 
species of inflammation. They dam up the pus and speedily become 
foul and offensive rags; cleanliness is one of the primary requisites 
toward good surgery. 



412 OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

No caustics of any kind are imperative or even necessary. The two 
lotions, if used with proper zeal, will accomplish all that can be desired. 
The arnica lotion should, however, be in all cases applied night and day 
during the early stage; the chloride of zinc lotion ought to be employed 
only during the time man is usually out of bed. 

The wound, in ordinary cases, should not be washed or touched. 
Should proud flesh start up, such is positive proof of the negligence 
of the groom, whose duty it was to apply the chloride of zinc lotion. 
If the mode of treatment here laid down be strictly pursued, the author 
can with confidence promise a satisfactory and a speedy cure. To 
enforce the value of the measures recommended, the portraits of two 
knees, which were subjected to the opposite processes, have been pre- 
sented. Both were copied from living subjects in the sixth week after 
the misfortune had occurred. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

The primary cause of these fearful accidents is the pride of mankind ; 
gentility is always striving to impose upon credulity. It loves to be 
mistaken for something better than it really is. After all, this vice of 
society is nothing more than the child's game of " Lords and Ladies," 
played by grown-up persons. A horse having a naturally defective neck 
is obtained ; no barbarity is too abhorrent to repress the hope of mak- 
ing people believe the steed thus deformed is a creature of extremest 
value. The animal, if ridden, has the chin pulled in close to the neck ; 
if driven, the free carriage of the body is prevented by the cruel bear- 
ing-rein. The hofse progresses in agony, while gentility sits smiling at 
the result of its artifice. The horse cannot see the ground before it, 
because of the constraint imposed upon the head; it cannot fix atten- 
tion upon its duty, because of the agony which the cunning of gentility 
inflicts upon the lips. The pace is always rapid; the action is high as 
in the case of blindness ; and the animal generally comes to the earth with 
violence. The skin upon the knees is divided, and the structures beneath 
are penetrated. One or more synovial sheaths are opened, while the 
cavities formed by the junction of the separate bones may be lacerated. 

Sheath or joint may not be immediately opened by the fall, but either 
may have their integrity destroyed through the slough induced by the 
contusion consequent upon a broken knee. Moreover, various acci- 
dents will occasionally happen — misfortune is of infinite variety. The 
synovial bursae, sheaths, or cavities of the hind legs are occasionally 
punctured by the quadruped kicking violently while in harness. The 
capsule, embracing the tendon of the flexor brachii upon the point of 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 413 

the shoulder, has been opened by the animal drawing a vehicle being- 
run into ; or by the hoi'se running away and coming in contact with 
some obstacle. Any synovial cavity within the body may be penetrated 
by an unfortunate combination of circumstances ; or by the unbridled 
passion of the groom, who may have a pitchfork near at hand. So 
also they have been cut into by the arrogance of unskillful operators. 
However, it matters not how the misfortune may arise, the mode of 
ti'eatment and the manner of cure is in all such cases exactly the same. 

Neither, as regards the primary eflFect, is it of subsequent importance 
whether air be admitted into an opened bursa or sac, a synovial sheath, 
or the interior of a joint. All of these structures are formed into blad- 
ders or closed cavities. They all contain a similar secretion, which is a 
transparent, albuminous fluid, resembling white of egg. They all are 
of one use, or all serve to facilitate motion. The bursa is the smallest ; 
the synovial sheath is the next in magnitude ; and joints may be much 
the largest. The secondary effects are proportioned to their size, but 
in the first instance much constitutional disturbance will attend the 
opening of each. 

These structures are not formed to endure the presence of atmosphere ; 
air is admitted a short time after each displays inflammation. This 
creates symptoms of irritability, and air will enter before we see the 
wound. The secondary effect is, however, most to be dreaded. Bursse 
are small bladders, or closed sacs, distributed over the body, and located 
wherever the natural motions possibly might originate friction. Sheaths 
always embrace tendons, being essentially closed sacs. The secondary 
effects of tendinous sheaths are so much the more to be dreaded than 
those attending punctured bursas, because the last generally lie loosely 
between highly-organized parts ; whereas a sheath is partly fixed upon 
a tendon, and tendon, being lowly organized, is more difficult to cure 
when it is diseased. However, joints are much worse than the preceding 
two ; because in these the synovial membrane is partly spread over the 
cartilage, which lies upon the articular surfaces of bones. Now, carti- 
lage is the most lowly organized substance in the entire body. When 
disease fixes upon it the morbid condition is so slow, so irritating, and 
so difficult to eradicate, that science almost despairs of the issue. 

The results indicated show that every effort should be made to ward 
off the secondary effect. Therefore, when an accident of this nature 
occurs, proceed with the utmost gentleness. Having procured a large 
sponge and a pail of milk-warm water, saturate the sponge and squeeze 
it dry, above the injury. Do not touch the sore, but allow the fluid, as 
it gravitates, to wash off all or any foreign matter. With regard to 
the wound, dirt seldom enters that. When it does, the suppuration which 



414 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



must ensue upon the accident will more effectually remove it than could 
hogsheads of water, however unfeelingly it might be employed. 

The part having been rendered clean, the wound is to be attentively 
observed. When nothing but blood or serum, or thin, discolored fluid 
can be seen, this argues the more important structures are entire. Should 
there be among, and yet distinct from, those discharges, a transparent, 
glairy liquid flowing forth, such is absolute proof some synovial mem- 
brane has been severed. The size of the current and the abundance of 
the secretion are also evidences not to be despised. Probabilities may 
be inferred from these circumstances. If the amount of the synovia be 
small, there is hope that a bursa only has been interfered with ; when the 
amount is large, it demonstrates that either a sheath is punctured or the 
joint itself may have been opened. Synovial cavities between bones 
may be larger, and are much more active than the sheaths of tendons ; 
therefore the magnitude of the current should be observed ; although, 
when the integrity of many parts has been destroyed, little absolute 
dependence will be placed upon the comparative quantity of the syno- 
vial secretion. 

Anatomy is, under the circumstances, a fair guide. Where numerous 
structui-es are involved, a well-grounded learning is requisite for accu- 
rate judgment; but as regards the knee of the horse, the spot whence 

No.1. No. 2. 





THE TENDONS WHICH CROSS THE ODTSIDE OF THE 
KNEE-JOINT. 

Explanation of No 1. 

1. The extensor nietacarpi tendon. 

2. The extensor nietacarpi obliquus tendon. 

3. The extensor pedis tendon. 

4. 5, 7. Connecting and restraining bands between 

the tendons. 
6. The extensor suffraginis tendon. 

8. The tlexor nietacarpi exteruus tendon. 

9. The back sinews. 



THE TENDONS WHICH CROSS THE INSIDE OF THE 
KNEE-JOINT. 

Explanation of No. 2. 

1. The extensor nietacarpi tendon. 

2. The extensor nietacarpi obllquns tendon. 

3. The flexor met.icarpi internus tendon. 

4. The back sinews. 

The letter a denotes the only spot whore 
the knee-joint could probably be opened 
by a fall without lacerating a synovial 
heath or injuring a tendon. 



the synovial discharge issues is of all importance. The incision must 
either be very deep and gaping, (all subjacent structures being divided 
before the knee-joint can be exposed,) or else the wound must affect a 
very circumscribed place. The reader, by consulting the above ana- 
tomical engravings of the horse's knee, will remark how closely it is laced 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



415 




PROBING BROKEN KNEE 



about with tendon. Each of the tendons, when crossing the joint, is 
embraced in a synovial sheath. From such information, it will instantly 
be seen how far more likely a sheath is to be lacerated than the joint is 
to be punctured. 

The single point where the joint could be entered without severing 
tendon, lies rather on one side than directly in the center. The vulner- 
able spot is therefore not exposed to the full force of the blow. To lay 
bare the joint by an ordinary fall several parts must be divided. Rarely 
is an accident witnessed of so fearful an extent. Generally that which 
is spoken of as open joint proves to be no more than 
punctured sheath, the presence of synovia being 
commonly accepted as the proof. But when the 
joint is really laid open, the immense flow of syno- 
via — so many sheaths being severed — should at once 
prove the fact. 

The probe must next be used. In the first in- 
stance it should be employed to ascertain whether 
the fall has left any purse or sac at the inferior part 
of the joint. All which was enforced respecting 
the use of metallic wire to a raw wound must here 
be observed. The probe had better be altogether 
discarded than employed with the smallest approach to rudeness. 

The suspected sac having been discovered, a large spatula is placed 
below the knee. A knife with a keen point, but with the edge only 
sharpened for one-third of its length, is 
to be used. Upon the cutting point of 
the knife a piece of beeswax is firmly 
moulded. The wax answers the pur- 
pose of a temporary probe ; the blade, 
thus guarded, is cautiously inserted be- 
neath the loose flap of skin. When the 
bottom of the pouch is reached, a cer- 
tain amount of resistance will be encoun- 
tered; through this the knife is driven. 
The force cuts in twain the wax, and 
pushes through the integument the blade, 
which the spatula guides from the leg. 
This operation should be performed 

quickly ; the hand should simply be carried downward, and then brought 
upward when all is concluded; care, howevei", being taken that the 
withdrawal of the knife does not injure any part save those it was 
designed to cut. 




THE MANNER OP OPENING THE DIRT SAC, IN 
CASE ONE SHOCID BE PRESENT WITH OPEK 
JOINT. 



416 OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

Should the horse be nervous, it is desirable to blindfold the animal 
and order the groom to hold up the sound leg; the creature can then 
only rear. When thus disabled, that movement is rendered difficult, and 
it is proportionably slow. The operation, if properly performed, should 
be over before action can be prepared for; and by the knife a consider- 
able incision is made in the bottom of the sac, through which all grit or 
dirt can, with the pus, readily pass. 

The examination concludes with a second resort to the probe. The 
instrument is in surgery of great use ; but as it is commonly employed, 
reason may doubt whether injured life has been much benefited by its 
invention. It generally is raked and poked about as though the person 
holding it was determined, at all hazards, to ascertain the length, 
breadth, and every irregularity of the wound he is asked to cure ; much 
harm is thereby done. Delicate attachments which, if not interfered 
with, might induce speedy reunion, are thus broken down, and the injury 
aggravated ; while the operator thinks he ought to know all about the 
lesion he is to treat, and supposes that he can possibly do no harm with 
an instrument which the best schools order to be employed. 

A good surgeon has no curiosity to gratify ; all he desires to know is 
so much as will enable him to benefit the patient 
placed under his care. Therefore never abuse the 
probe in cases of open synovial cavities. Imagine 
the distance the bones are from the surface; and, 
if the probe can enter a very little beyond that 
distance, such a fact demonstrates the cavity to be 
exposed. When a horse is before you with syno- 
via running from a wound upon the knee, have the 
leg slightly flexed ; look for the most free space, 
PROBING AN OPEN JOINT. ^"^ luto that luscrt thc probe. The bones of the 
knee-joint are directly under the skin ; and, when 
no opposition is encountered for three-quarters of an inch, be sure the 
joint is exposed. 

Most of the cases narrated as opened joints were simply punctures 
into synovial sheaths ; as such, they were sufficiently serious, but not of 
so important a character as is assumed for them. Synovia is placed 
between the ends of bones, its use being to prevent the friction which 
otherwise would be occasioned by the movement of one hard body upon 
another. Being confined in a circumscribed sac and incapable of much 
compression, the liquid performs all the uses which could appertain to 
the most solid substance. When the fluid — which, from its thick appear- 
ance and unctuous feel, was formerly termed "joint oil" — has escaped, 
the bones grate against each other, inflammation ensues, all neighbor- 




OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 



417 



iug parts sympathize, and the constitution suffers from intense irri- 
tation. 

Something of this kind happens when a synovial sheath is punctured. 
The tendon comes in contact with its investing synovial membrane ; but 
there are reasons why that circumstance is not so serious as when the 
lubricating fluid is released from the cavity of a joint. Tendons support 
no weight, and their motion is, with the sick, almost optional. The 
bones are the pillars on which the body rests ; even while the frame is 
prostrated, a certain degree of pressure is upon them ; for that reas^on, 
and also because tendon is more highly organized than cartilage, the 
tirst-mentioned substance is endowed with the greater renovating energy. 
An open joint is consequently far more serious than a punctured sheath. 

Notwithstanding the serious nature of these ac- 
cidents when wrongly ti'eated, few injuries yield 
more kindly to proper measui*es than open joint. 
Howevei", should the ordinary treatment of caustics 
and bandages be adopted, the entire limb, before 
the expiration of a week, will be hot, hard, and 
tense. The health of the animal will be seriously 
affected by the continued irritation, and the body 
will rapidly become emaciated. The foot of the 
limb will with evident difficulty be held from the 
ground. Should not death interpose — the animal 
being unable to lie down, and the entire weight 
being cast upon the sound limb — the foot attached 
to the healthy member frequently becomes affected 
with the worst form of incurable laminitis. 

Even should such a misfortune as laminitis not 
occui', the after-deformity and blemish renders the 
horse almost worthless. The bones sympathize in the general disease, 




THE IXJURED LEO, HARD, HOT, 
TENSE, AND SWOLLEN — ALL 
RESULTING FROM THE IN- 
JUDICIOUS EMPLOYMENT OF 
BANDAGES. 





OSSEOUS STRUCTURE HAS BEEN THROVTN OUT, 
CAUSING ENLARGED KNEE AND PERMANENT 
BLEMISH — THE RESULTS OF USING BANDAGES, 



EXTENSIVE LOSS OP HAIR, GENERAL ENLARGEMENT OF 
THE KNEE, AND ORGANIZED THICKENING OF THE 
SCAR — RESULTING FROM THE USE OP BANDAGES. 



and a lai'ge osseous deposit is engendered to mark the surgical inapti- 
tude. When bony growth does not follow, the parts lying immediately 

27 



418 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 



over the knee thicken ; the skin sloughs, and, the integument never being 
restored, a full knee with a lasting blemish is the consequence. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

The more favorable terminations are never to be anticipated when the 
barbarity of bandages and the cruelty of caustics are sanctioned. The 
horse which recovers from such treatment is, by an enlarged and blem- 
ished limb, rendered an object painful to contemplate, and is entirely 
unsuited to any gentleman's uses, while the life of the creature is ren- 
dered burdensome. There is nothing in the proper treatment which a 
child might not safely apply. The measures create no pain and require 
no force ; they rather soothe than irritate, and therefore are always sub- 
mitted to with complacency. 





OPEN JOINT ENSUINf} UPON BROKEN KNEE, THE GENERAL APPEARANCE OF AN OPEN 

AND SOLELY CAUSED BY THE ABUSE OP JOINT ^'HEN FIRST SUBMITTED TO THE 

BANDAGES. NOTICE OF THE SURGEON. 

The animal, when first brought in, never displays symptoms indicating 
the full extent of its injury. The part which has been wounded gener- 
ally presents something like the aspect represented in the engraving on the 
right. Commonly there is an evident flow of synovia, but the most care- 
ful examination can seldom detect positive evidence of an open joint. 

The full extent of the evil cannot be known before the slough takes 
place. This is certain to follow upon the customary bleeding, physick- 
ing, low diet, bandages, and caustics being employed. As recovery is 
wished for, all such aggravations must be rejected. Proceed, in the first 
instance, as has been directed for broken knee ; and these things being 
done, give the following drink : — 

Sulphuric ether One ounce. 

Laudanum One ounce. 

Water Half a pint. 

Give this without noise or violence. 

Treat the frightened animal with even more gentleness and patience 
than would be bestowed upon a sick child. A harsh word may now, 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 419 

when the system is shaken and every nerve unstrung, do that harm which 
no medicine can repair. 

Having given the drink, look at the animal and take the pulse. Should 
the appearance denote inward comfort, should the pulse be natural, give 
no more drinks; but if the eye is in constant motion, if the horse breathe 
hard and start at sounds, if the head is held high and the ears are active, 
repeat the ethereal draught, and continue repeating it every hour until 
the foregoing symptoms abate. 

The object of the medicine being gained, have the horse quietly led 
into a stall ; the stall it has been used to is the best, and the favorite 
neighbor need not be removed. But all other quadrupeds which might 
disturb the sick animal should be taken out of the building. A good, 
clean bed should be shaken down, and the diet must be suited to the 
symptoms. If the pulse is at all low, no hay should be allowed till it 
amends ; should the arterial beat denote oppression, a rather large pro- 
portion of beans may be blended with the oats. If the breathing is 
short, the countenance unhappy, and the eye sleepy, while a very quick 
and feeble pulse only is to be detected, give four of the ethereal drinks 
in the twenty-four hours. Also allow two quarts of stout daily. 

All horses should be accustomed to drink beer ; with very little teach- 
ing they abandon their teetotal habits, and will by very expressive action 
signify delight at the sight of a pewter pot. The best means of intro- 
ducing the beverage to their notice is, in the first instance, to break a 
penny loaf into pieces, to soak the pieces in the beverage, and then to 
offer them, one by one, from the hand of the master or the favorite at- 
tendant. Animals quickly learn to recognize their owners. The dog 
will bestow snch a welcome upon its proprietor as is never lavished 
upon any stranger. The horse also learns to recognize the individual 
whose property it has become. See the animal which has carried the 
groom without excitement to the door, and which has walked before the 
house with pendant head and listless ears : the moment the door opens 
and the master appears, all dejection is cast off; the creature cannot 
stand still when the foot is in the stirrup ; and, immediately the weight 
is felt upon the back, the happy quadruped prances gayly off, often at 
the risk of unseating him who has provoked this demonstration of ex- 
cessive pleasure. 

The master who is unknown has earned his fate by his neglect, and 
probably may live to repent his inattention to the duties which Provi- 
dence has intrusted to his charge. The affections of the meanest 
creature that breathes are blessings which the highest and the proudest 
may well stoop to gain. The love of a horse is not to be despised ; 
the noble quadruped is easier controlled by its uncultivated impulses 



420 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 



than by all the restraints which brutes have invented or fools have 
adopted. It should enter into the considerations of every life assurance 
company, whether the man who takes out a policy is of a nature likely 
to be loved by the animals which he possesses. 

Beer is everywhere procurable, and it is not to be altogether con- 
temned as a medicinal stimulant. Many a horse which is now lost upon 
every hard field-day would have been saved if the animal bad been 
pulled up at the nearest public house to be presented with a slice of 
bread and a pint of beer. Such nourishment would 
not load the stomach ; but it would serve to keep off 
that utter exhaustion from which too many steeds 
fail. 

The animal being in its stall, then apply the lotion, 
composed of tincture of arnica, two ounces ; water, 
one quart. Use this by means of a sponge and saucer. 
Pour some of the liquor into the receptacle. Satu- 
rate the sponge and squeeze the fluid upon the leg, 
but above the injured knee. Do this after the man- 
ner which is illustrated as the proper mode of wash- 
ing the wounded part. 

Continue with the arnica lotion, night and day, for 
half a week. No periods can be named for applying 
the sponge, as inflammations, and therefore the dry- 
ing powers, vary in different individuals ; but the 
knee should be always wet. This should be attended to for the first 
three days and a half, during which the halter should be tied to the 
rack. At the end of that time turn the horse very gently round. Re- 
member the condition of the limb, and allow time for the performance 
of an action which is always an effort to the most agile of the equine 
species, as few stalls are a single inch too wide. 

The animal being with its face to the gangway, and fastened by the 
pillar-reins, place the slings before it. Leave the creature to contem- 
plate the apparatus for half an hour. Then take the cloth and hold it 
up to the inspection of the quadruped. Afterward place it between 
the fore and hind legs — pausing and speaking kindly should alarm be 
displayed. Thus by degrees fix it to the pulleys and bring it near to 
the abdomen, which, however, should by no means be touched. Then 
caress the creature's head, and present some of its favorite food : eating 
generally tranquilizes the mind of an animal. So much being done, 
proceed to fix the straps upon the chest and withers. Then fondle the 
sufferer again, and it will permit the hind tackle to be arranged. 

When all is fixed, leave a pail of water suspended from one pillar, 




THE MANNER IN WHICH LO- 
TION SHOULD BE APPLIED 
TO AN OPEN JOINT. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 



421 



and put an elevated trough, charged with favorite provender, in front 
of the horse. Let it be watched till a week from the date of the injury 
has expired, and never left during that period even for an instant. If 
any restlessness is exhibited, the attendant should approach and caress 
the creature. Quadrupeds — though none comprehend the precise mean- 
ing of the language — love to be praised. The hand, fondly applied to 
the skin, and the human voice, modulated by kindness, seem to convey a 
purport to animals which they will suffer pain to deserve. The writer 
lately had a favorite dog, whose aversion was dry bread. It would hold 
the detested morsel in its mouth for hours, looking most uncomfortable, 
but making no attempt at mastication. Yet, upon praise being lavished, 
the eye would brighten, and, rather than prove unworthy of so much 
commendation, the hardest and stalest crust would be chewed and swal- 
lowed. 

Watching is necessary, because many horses when thus imprisoned, 
being left alone, grow terrified and injure themselves by struggling their 
bodies out of the slings. The presence of any human being assures 
the timidity and checks the active imagination of a solitary animal. The 
author well knows that the learning of the present time denies imagina- 
tion to animals. Shying, is only the creature imagining something 
which is not actually before it. What are dreams but positive evidences 
of imagination ? All people 
have heard the suppressed 
bark and seen the excited 
limbs of the dog as it slept 
upon the hearth rug. How 
many grooms have been 
surprised, upon their ear- 
liest visit, to see the stable 
knocked to pieces and the 
horse prostrated amid the 
ruin it has created ! How is 
this to be explained if imag- 
ination be not present in the 
animal ? This is the author's 
interpretation of the mystery. 
Dreams are active, in pro- 
portion to the immaturity of 
the reason. Children often 

wake up in tears, and continue screaming in terror for long periods if 
unattended to. The horse starts out of a fearful vision ; darkness is 
about it ; the fear augments ; the animal begins kicking ; the sound 




A HORSE IN SLINGS TOR OPEN JOINT. 



422 OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

made by its own feet increases the creature's alarm ; it lashes out 
frequently until it has pounded part of its dwelling into atoms and dis- 
abled itself to that degree which makes the highest punishment the 
greatest mercy. 

A high trough is required to guard against the effects of that itching 
which attends the healing process, and provokes the animal to strike its 
knees. This it would do against the manger were its head in the cus- 
tomary position. Were a wall before it, the knees might still be laid 
open ; but with a high trough nothing is within the reach of its injured 
joint. Even supposing one of the slender supports, by the cunning of 
excitement, to be struck, the substance should be too light to offer any 
dangerous resistance, the blow being far more likely to overturn the 
machine than to lacerate the limb. 

When the quadruped lias remained sufficient time in the slings to have 
become familiar with them, pull up the cloth so that it may slightly 
touch but not press against the belly. Then well secure it, and leave 
the animal to rest its wearied limbs, or not, as it pleases. Its suffering 
joints will soon teach the horse to bear the entire weight upon such a 
support, and to sleep comfortably in the contrivance. With a few, and 
only a few examples, living in slings has induced such confirmed consti- 
pation as necessitated a daily resort to bran mashes. Most horses, 
however, speedily accept and grow fat, enjoying the relief thus afforded. 
Only one caution need be given — look well to the tackle. The horse is 
very heavy, and should a single fastening prove insecure, the result 
might convei't a healing wound into a hopeless injury. 

With the employment of slings, change the lotion for one composed 
of chloride of zinc, one scruple; water, one pint; this need be applied 
only during the day. It is too weak to occasion 
pain, and should be used with the saucer and 
sponge, after the manner of washing a broken 
knee or open joint, which has been previously 
illustrated. The strength, nevertheless, is suf- 
ficient to coagulate the albumen of the synovia. 
Thus it forms a / species of natural bandage 
which excludes the air, while at the same time 
THE ALBUMINOUS BALL, ■n'mcii it stlmulatcs thc flcsh and causes that to heal 

FORMS IN SHAPE OF AN OPEN l j_l i i. • i? -j. 11 • 

JOINT WHEN TREATED WITH uudcr thc protcctiou 01 its own albuminous 

A SOLUTION OP CHLORIDE OF , . 

ZINC. secretion. 

The coagulated albumen frequently accumu- 
lates in front of the knee. The author has seen it attached to the part 
quite of the size and very near to the form of the largest apple. It 
must on no account be touched, however large it may grow or however 




WOUNDS. 423 

insecure it may appear. Respect it, and it will fall off when its service 
is accomplished. The cure is nearly completed when the white ball 
falls. Shortly after the wounds being closed, and pressure made with 
the fingers — not with the thumb — can be endured, the slings may be 
removed; though the healing should be further confirmed before the 
horse is allowed to stand opposite to any substance against which it 
may strike what recently has been a fearful open joint. 

WOUNDS. 

To this species of injury the horse is much exposed from the reckless- 
ness or incompetence of those who assume to hold the reins of authority. 
Occurrences which are politely termed "accidents," generally entail 
suffering upon the blameless animal. The common provocatives of such 
accidents are either the drunkenness of man or his utter ignorance of 
the mental attributes of the quadruped he has possession of. The first 
cause shall be passed over in disgust ; the second merits some consider- 
ation, being rather a universal than an individual fault. 

When a horse pauses, always endeavor to ascertain the motive ; the 
reason may be groundless. By gentleness, convince the creature that 
its fears are without foundation, and you earn a supremacy as well as 
win a gratitude which will always be cheerfully acknowledged. Never 
employ the whip to correct "the obstinacy of the brute." The horse 
is naturally very fearful ; were it not so, man would never have obtained 
that mastery which is imperative for domestication. Elderly gentlemen 
should never thrust their heads out of carriage windows and shout to 
the driver to "go on." Such implied chiding may urge the coachman 
to display severity, and the horse is dangerous when alarmed. So long 
as the animal continues calm, the superiority of man is submitted to ; 
but once excite the terror of the quadruped, and all earthly restraint 
is powerless. Dread assumes the form of the wildest fury, and the 
horse tears onward, insensible to mortal punishment and blind to every 
danger. 

It is in this manner the most terrible wounds are produced. Such 
injuries, in surgical language, are defined to be "solutions of continuity," 
or "separations of the skin and soft parts underneath." Neither of 
these definitions, however, includes a bruise or a contused wound. There- 
fore, for the present purpose, a wound will be interpreted an injury in- 
flicted by external violence. 

A lacerated wound may be too trivial to attract the surgeon's notice, 
as a scratch. It may also be a very serious affair, as when a cart-wheel 
runs against a horse's thigh, tearing the flesh asunder. Laceration is 




424 WOUNDS. 

generally accompanied by contusion, though contusion forms no neces- 
sary part of a lacerated wound. When such injuries are inflicted, they 
are mostly followed by little hemorrhage; yet it is 
far from unusual for an animal thus hurt to perish. 
Shock to the system is the most serious of the pri- 
mary effects. Beyond that the immediate conse- 
quence appears to be insignificant. Little blood is 
lost, for the vessels are stimulated by the violence 
which rends these tubes and the soft structui'es 
asunder. Stimulation causes the torn mouths of 
the arteries and veins to close or to retract. The 
ragged coats of the vessels, the loose fibers of the 
flesh, and the jagged cellular tissue likewise fall over 
DIAGRAM OF A SEVERE ^^^ orificcs, aud help to stay the flow of the vital 

LACERATED WOUND. OUrreUt 

The dangers attending lacerated wounds spring, 
in the first instance, from collapse. This possibility being overcome, 
the immediate peril has been surmounted; all injuries of this nature 
are commonly attended, however, with more or less contusion. The 
force necessary to tear open a portion of the body will, of necessity, 
bruise or kill some part of the flesh. Any animal substance, when 
deprived of vitality, must be cast off" by a living body; a slough must 
follow. Now that process is attended with hazard in proportion as it 
is tardily accomplished. The period of its occurrence is always one of 
anxiety; for when this process takes place, the stimulation that orig- 
inally caused the vessels to retract no longer exists. All mechanical 
opposition to hemorrhage is, with the loss of the dead matter, generally 
removed. Everything, therefore, depends upon the fibrinous deposit — a 
sort of glutinous material secreted by the body, which is commonly 
largely poured forth when any slough by natural and speedy action is 
effected. Should the frame be so far debilitated as to prevent all secre- 
tion of fibrin, the most frightful bleeding must ensue. 

The horse which has not recovered from the original injury will then 
sink under the terrible depletion. Therefore, it is impossible to form 
any opinion of the injurious effects or of the consequences likely to 
follow a lacerated wound before some time has elapsed. 

An incised wound implies a division, more or less deep, of the soft 
parts. This form of injury produces less shock to the system, and 
generally heals more quickly than any other. The principal danger is 
encountered at the moment when the wound is inflicted ; vessels may be 
sundered, and they are cut in twain with the least possible irritation to 
the parts within which they are situated. The veins and arteries, there- 



WOUNDS. 



425 




DIAGRAM OF AN IXCISED WOU.ND. 



fore, do not generally retract any more than do the soft structures. A 
gash into a fleshy substance always produces a gaping wound, which is 
wide in proportion to the depth and length of 
the injury. From that hurt the dark-colored 
venous blood drains in a stream, while the bright 
scarlet or arterial blood is propelled forth in 
jets, sometimes to a considerable distance. 
These jets correspond with the pulsations of the 
heart; but as syncope or fainting takes place, 
the emission ceases with the beating of the cir- 
culatory center. 

The danger consequent upon an incised 
wound is ever measured by the extent of the 

hemorrhage. When large arteries are divided, that fact is easily told 
by the size and the force of the jets sent forth. A strong horse may, 
from that cause, be dead in ten minutes. To enforce the diffei-ence 
between a lacerated and an incised wound, the reader is reminded of 
those painful cases, frequently recorded in the newspapers, where a 
limb is by machinery torn from a poor man's 
body, and scarcely a drop of blood marks the 
deprivation ; also of death by severing a throat, 
when sensation ceases ere the stream has flowed 
forth. The last is an incised, the first is a 
lacerated wound. 

An abraded wound, in its mildest form, is 
simply a graze. The reader will, however, 
remember how acutely painful such accidents 
always are. The horse's sufferings are not 
highly estimated by the generality of people ; 
nevertheless, an injury of this description is 
not to be despised, even when witnessed on 
the animal. A broken knee, as it generally is 
exhibited, is nothing more than an abrasion. 
An abraded wound may simply mean that the 

insensible outer covering of the skin has been injured ; it may also 
imply that the soft structures beneath have been sundered. Wounds 
of this kind are not free from danger when of magnitude. Little blood 
may flow, but the cutis is the most sensitive structure of the entire 
body. A needle's point cannot enter any part of the skin without sen- 
sation warning the person of a puncture. In human operations, divi- 
sion of the skin, or separation of the cutis, is known to constitute the 
major portion of the patient's agony. 




DIAGRAM OF AN ABRADED WOUND. 




426 WOUNDS. 

The suffering attendant on the latter class of injuries is increased by 
almost every abrasion forcing grit or dirt into the substance of the cutis. 
This, of course, is generally washed out. The torture accompanying a 
large abraded surface is, therefore, very great; and horses when suffer- 
ing from accidents of such a nature sometimes sink from the irritation 
consequent upon the injury. When the animals survive, the roots of 
the hair too often have been destroyed, and a perpetual blemish is the 
result. 

A punctured wound is always dangerous ; the hazard in this, as in 

every species of injury, is greatly increased 
when inflicted on parts liable to any vast 
amount of motion. Thus, punctures occur- 
ring over the stifle-joint too often set our 
best surgery at defiance. The muscles of 
the hind leg contract with every move- 
ment of the body. Added to that, the 
part abounds with fascia. 
DIAGRAM OF A PUNCTURED WOUND. rpj^^ ffiajority of thcsB wouuds hcal by 

'^'tr.^r&TS,''fn 'orders suppuration. Fascia is a substance no pus 
:x?:;t*oftK?urrwTt,Xtr- can penetrate, and which is more easily 
tEStTL^fis'cTaraLHz'J:!! reut than punctured. The exit of the 

secretion, therefore, is opposed in many 
directions, while the ceaseless motion occasions the matter to burrow. 
The sinuses thus produced are by the fascia guided to the stifle-joint; 
and, when once the synovial cavity is polluted by the intrusion of the 
unhealthy pus, all the best efforts of science are useless. 

When a punctured wound occurs, the skin, being elastic, stretches 
before the instrument by which the wound is inflicted. The soft parts 
beneath the skin, not being elastic to the same degree as the integument, 
break down before the penetrating force. They are torn or lacerated ; 
for generally the muscles receive a larger injury than would be cal- 
culated from the size of the instrument by which the blow was inflicted. 
The rent flesh must be cast off by a slough — corruption generally at- 
tends that process. Much of the pus secreted cannot find an exit 
through the opening in the skin ; a large portion of it is confined 
within the puncture. There it decays, and, being impelled by the 
motion of the limb, readily finds its way in all directions save the 
upward one. 

No judgment approaching to accuracy can be formed at the first sight 
of a punctured wound. The probe may ascertain the depth of the injury, 
but it cannot tell the extent of damage done to the interior of the body. 
Therefore, whether the hoof is pierced by a nail, or the muscles are lacer- 




WOUNDS. 42*7 

ated by the shaft of a cart — be the instrument large or small — the conse- 
quences likely to follow upon the injury cannot be foretold. 

A contusion, in its mildest form, is simply a bruise. Injuries of this 
class, when of magnitude, are very deceptive ; the surface is unstained 
by blood, and there is no flesh exposed. For these 
reasons the ignorant are apt to disregard such acci- ^^„m'i 
dents, and to express surprise when they terminate ""^ 
otherwise than kindly. When a bruise happens, blood 
is effused in smaller or larger quantities according to i^Mft'illMiiW 
the extent of the injury. A small quantity of effused 
blood, sufficient to discolor the human skin, may be 
absorbed; but when the amount is large, the powers 

^ . 1 n 1 mi 1 1 J J.U 4. i- DIAGRAM OF A CONTUSED 

of nature are defied. The blood thrown out, not wound. 

being taken up again, congeals, and ultimately cor- 
rupts. Then an abscess or a slough is necessitated ; both are attended 
with danger : the first may be deep seated or superficial ; either form is 
attended by much weakness. That generates considerable irritation, and 
may even be the cause of fatal hemorrhage ; or it may lead to sinuses, 
the direction, the number, or extent of which, when they do occur, is not 
to be predicated. A bruise is, consequently, not to be judged of hastily. 
The amount of pain which it provokes is even unworthy dependence, as 
the injury may have hurt the bone or the tendon ; and then, though the 
accident is i-endered very serious, in the first instance no sign of agony 
announces the extent of the evil. 

With regard to treatment, when a lacerated wound occurs, the first 
attention should be paid to the system, which has always been much 
shaken. Give, therefore, the drink composed of one ounce each of laud- 
anum and sulphuric ether, with half a pint of water ; repeat it every 
quarter of an hour till the shivering natural to the horse on these occa- 
sions has disappeared, and the pulse has recovered its healthy tone. 

Avoid all poultices of the ordinary kind ; one composed of one-fourth 
yeast and three-fourths of any coarse grain, excepting bran, may be 
applied. So also may a lotion thus composed : — 

Lotion for Lacerated Wounds. 

Tincture of cantharides One ounce. 

Chloride of zinc Two drachms. 

Water Three pints. 

Mix. Keep a rag constantly wet over the part. 

Either will stimulate the parts, and probably prevent any tendency to 
unhealthy action. The yeast poultice produces this effect by giving off 
carbonic acid ; the lotion accomplishes this intention by both its active 



428 WOUNDS. 

ingredients. Each is stimulating, also disinfectant, and will counteract 
any filthy odor which may attend the sloughing process ; but the lotion 
is perhaps to be preferred, as it is more easily applied. When the slough 
has taken place, should hemorrhage ensue, dash upon the part jug after 
jug of the coldest water; or, should no very cold water be at hand, drive 
upon the mouths of the vessels a current of wind from the nozzle of the 
bellows. Continue to do this till the bleeding ceases, or until a surgeon 
can be obtained to take up the arteries. 

The after-treatment is simple : apply frequently the solution of chlo- 
ride of zinc, one grain to an ounce of water ; that lotion will cleanse the 
wound and prevent unpleasant smells. 

As respects feeding, this must be regulated by the character of the 
pulse. Should the beat of the artery be quick and feeble, no hay should 
be given ; good, thick gruel should constitute the only drink excepting 
in extreme cases, when two pots of porter may be allowed each day. 
Good oats and old beans, both crushed and scalded, should then consti- 
tute the food, and the utmost gentleness should be exercised toward the 
animal. 

Should the pulse be natural, allow three feeds of oats each day, as, in 
every kind of injury to the horse, more danger is to be apprehended 
from debility than from any excess of energy. 

Incised wounds. — When these happen, always dash the part with plenty 
of cold water or blow upon them with the bellows. Place the horse in 
the nearest shed ; motion promotes hemorrhage, therefore a walk is not 
to be hazarded. The bleeding being arrested — for, in severe accidents 
of this kind, there is no time to send for assistance — let the animal 
remain perfectly quiet until the exposed surface has become almost dry, 
but on being touched by the finger feels sticky. Then draw the edges 
together, and keep them in that position by means of sutures. 

The best means of inserting these sutures is 
with a curved needle fixed into a handle. The 
handle is wanted to obtain the necessary power, 
and the needle's point should be sharp to pen- 
etrate the hide of the horse, which in places 
is of considerable thickness. The needle is 
thrust through the integument about one inch 
and a half from one margin of the incision ; it 
is brought out about the same distance within 
the divided soft parts. It enters the opposite 




FIXED SUTURE NEEDLE: VERY USE- 
FUL FOR INCIt 
GREAT DEPTH. 



FUL FOR INCISED WOUNDS OF NO ^.^^ ^^ ^j^^ sundcrcd flcsh cvcu with thc place 



whence it came forth, and afterward it appears 
through the skin about equally distant from the opposite edge of the 



WOUNDS. 429 

wound. There is a hole near the point of the needle ; through this 
opening a piece of strong twine or narrow tape is threaded ; when, the 
instrument being withdrawn, the twine or tape is pulled into the punc- 
ture which has been made. The needle is then released, the suture being 
left in. 

So many sutures as may be necessary are thus inserted — in small 
wounds, these being about two inches asunder, but in larger injuries, 




THE MANNER OF USING THE FIXED SETON NEEDLE. 




A second person pushes the wound together, and, when the point of the needle appears, threads it with 
a piece of zinc wire or soft string. The needle is then retracted, and released from the wire or string, 
whereby a suture is left in the wound. 

three inches apart. All are duly placed before any are tied ; the whole 

being ready, the wound is forced together by an assistant, while the 

strings are fastened — care being exercised 

not to bring any of them actually tight, 

lest the motion of the body or the swelling 

of the part should drag the sutures through 

the flesh and thereby tear them out. 

A wound thus united may possibly heal diagram of sutures when tied and 
by first intention, or the divided parts, when "^'^ 

brought together, may join, and give no further trouble to the surgical 
attendant, 

Union by first intention is, however, somewhat rare in the horse ; and 
should not that take place, suppuration will be established. So soon as 
the pus flows freely forth, and the sutures appear to tighten or drag, cut 
them out by snipping the twine ; but allow the strings to loosen before 
you attempt their withdrawal. 

If this is not done, the sutures will speedily find an exit for themselves 
by causing the flesh against which the tension acts to be absorbed ; thus 
the original injury will be rendered more complicated, and the ultimate 
blemish must be altogether greater. 

All that is required after the establishment of suppuration is to bathe 



430 



WOUNDS. 



the part with the solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of 
water. This lotion will suppress any fetor, and gently stimulate the 
healing process, as well as prevent the sprouting of fungoid granula- 
tions ; it is necessary also to attend strictly to the directions laid down 
for feeding during the curing of wounds. 

No. 2. 



No. 1. 





TWO KINDS OF SCTURES RARELY EMPLOYED UPON THE HORSE. 

No. 1. The continuous suture, which is employed for sewing up portions of bowel when the intestineti 

are injured and exposed. 
No. 2. The de?p suture or tlie quill suture. In the horse pieces of wood are substituted for quills. The 

wood is notched in the center; and upon tlie indentations the sutures are fixed, to [irevent the 

movements of the animal from displacing them. It is sometimes employed to bring the sides 

of deep and gaping wounds closer together. 

The treatment of an abraded wound chiefly consists in cleansing the 
surface with plenty of cold water, which should be allowed by its own 
weight to wash off any loose particles of dirt. No cloth or other aid 
should be employed to scrub the living flesh as though it were an insen- 
sitive board. The matter which cannot be removed by simply sluicing, 
had better remain to be expelled by the secretion of pus. The horse, 
especially when terrified, endures pain very badly ; indeed, the animal is 
so timid and so delicately framed that it is always good surgery to spare 
all unnecessary suff'ering. 

Support the body with laudanum and ether drinks, one ounce of each 
to the pint of water, as often as they may be needed. Let the food be 
generous, unless fever should arise, when the directions already given 
must be attended to. 

Punctured wounds require only one kind of treatment, whether a nail 
be driven into the flesh of the foot, or the shaft of a cart be forced into 
the substance of the thigh. Here the knife must be employed ; and, 
unless the animal shows evident symptoms of excessive weakness, it is 
better, perhaps, to operate while the parts are partially numbed by the 



WOUNDS. 431 

shock, than to wait until a morbid sensibility is provoked. Always en- 
large the opening ; do this in the foot by cutting away the horn of the 
sole around the small puncture left by the nail. When the soft parts are 
penetrated, probe the wound first ; then, if possible, insert a knife to the 
bottom of the puncture, and, with the edge downward, draw it forth. 
By this means a wound resembling a subverted < will be instituted. It 
will be narrowest toward the extremity, and widest at the mouth. A 
free opening affords a ready egress for all sloughs and pus. It materi- 
ally aids the healing process, and effectually prevents the establishment 
of sinuses ; while the clean incision left by the knife is of small import, 
when taken into consideration with the other consequences of a punc- 
tured wound. 

Support the animal if necessary, or regulate the food by the symptoms. 

A contused, wound, when slight, may be rubbed with the iodide of 
lead ointment, one drachm of the active agent to the ounce of lard; 
when all enlargement will sometimes subside, and the effused blood may 
be absorbed. However, the horse commonly receives injuries of magni- 
tude. In the last case, take a sharp knife and draw it along the entire 
length of the swelling. Make a long gash, only through the integument, 
at every eighth inch, and be careful to carry the knife through the integ- 
ument, or to the lowest portion of the detached skin. Any sac that 
may be left is certain to retain corruption, and may produce fearful after- 
consequences. The attendant measures consist in bathing the contusion 
with a lotion composed of chloride of zinc, one grain, water, one ounce, 
and diminishing the food or supporting the body as nature demands such 
treatment. 

The after-treatment of all injuries consists in keeping any external 
orifices open till all sloughs and pus have disappeared. In surgery, a 
large and depending opening, by means of which the interior may drain, 
is always to be preserved, and the knife, to this end, may be employed 
so often as the healing process threatens to prematurely close the 
wound. 

Formerly it was the practice to bleed after every injury ; this was done 
to prevent fever. However, observation has shown that the vital powers 
are more often weakened than increased by the shock attendant on severe 
accidents. Whenever the contrary happens, it is far better to lower the 
pulse by repeated doses of aconite, than to abstract that which will sub- 
sequently be necessary to repair injury. 

It was also once the custom to fill wounds with tents or lumps of tow, 
and to bandage every injured part. These habits only served to confine 
that which nature was striving to cast out. They consequently did much 
harm, and are now happily discarded. 




432 WOUNDS. 

A piece of loose rag, saturated in the oil or the solution of tar, 
should, during summer, be suspended over the mouth of every wound, to 
keep off the flies. The only tent which the author approves of is when 
an incised wound happens where assistance is far away, and difficult to 
procure. Then, to arrest the hemorrhage, let the horse rug, a man's 
coat, or anything else be violently thrust into the gash, and forcibly held 
there until proper assistance can be obtained. 

Such is the present method of treating wounds ; this to the reader 
may appear very cruel ; but could he have walked through and have 
inhaled the atmosphere of the wards in hospitals appropriated to such 
injuries as they existed in former times, he would thoroughly under- 
stand that apparent want of feeling is, in reality, the 
height of charity. 

To conclude this part, the author lays before his 
readers the following bandage, intended to meet an 
inconvenience hitherto experienced when a horse has 
the walls of the abdomen punctured. The constant 
motion of the part renders ordinary sutures of no avail, 
and for that reason bandages, unless so tight as to 
ABANDAflEPEsifiNEBFOR chcck circulatiou, are of little use. The annexed is 
of'thehors™^™^'"'^ made like a broad belt, and is buckled round the body. 
The bars are composed of vulcanized India-rubber; 
they will yield to the movements of the abdomen, and yet serve as sutures 
supporting any pendant flap, while at the same time they will allow the 
wound to be dressed without disturbing the bandage. They also offer 
the advantage of permitting the attendant to pull one support aside 
without removing the whole. 

Every part in the horse subjected to much motion when wounded, 
should have an adhesive plaster placed over it, and retained there until 
the suppurative action is confirmed. By this means is excluded the 
atmosphere, which, when this precaution was neglected, has entered the 
wound, penetrated between the muscles, and by distending the body 
increased the suffering, as well as led to the worst of consequences. 

Wounds in veterinary surgery rank among the most formidable cases 
with which the practitioner has to contend. They are not so because 
the flesh of the horse is slower to heal than that of the human being. 
Indeed, the scale in this respect inclines toward the animal ; but they are 
rendered slow to heal and difficult to cure by two causes. The horse is 
always impatient of restraint ; any effort to confine the creature is more 
likely to provoke dangerous resistance than to induce the slightest symp- 
tom of amendment. The quadruped naturally delights in motion. It 
was formed for activity. Even when in its stall the body is never abso- 



WOUNDS. 433 

lutely still; the position is being changed; the legs are frequently 
stamped ; the head, eyes, ears, and tail are never quiet. This innate 
quality retards the union of sundered flesh. It favors the gravitation of 
pus between the muscles, and thus generates sinuses. These are the tor- 
ments of veterinary surgery. Could the sinus be anticipated, or in all 
cases eradicated, the principal difficulty would be removed ; but intelli- 
gent as the horse is, it proves impossible to make the animal compre- 
hend the necessity for quietude. Hence any trivial accident may lead to 
injuries of so extensive a character and so malignant a nature as will set 
the best endeavors or the most consummate skill at defiance. 



28 



CHAPTER XV. 



OPERATIONS. 



The veterinary art is by no means rendered more successful by the 
cunning of its stratagems. Many of its objects are accomplished after 
the rudest and the most primitive methods. Not one, perhaps, is more 







THE PRESENT MANNER OP CASTING A HORSE FOR OPERATION. 

coarse than the present method of casting or throwing an animal previ- 
ous to an operation. The reader has only to ask himself what condition 
the body must be in when, with the sight blinded, it is suddenly jerked 
to the earth ; and how far it is fitly prepared by so violent a practice to 
be submitted to the knife of an operator ? 

There are few operations in veterinary surgery which a person of 
moderate nerve and average intelligence might not himself perform. 
The author has seen gentlemen with titles, and others holding high rank 
in the army, indulge in the strange pleasure of singeing living flesh with 
the heated iron. But he has never beheld horsemen handling the knife. 
The latter would better become their hands than the first severe and dis- 
figuring instrument^ which, however useful it may have been found in 
(434) 



OPERATIONS. 435 

certain cases met with in human surgery, nevertheless would be well abol- 
ished from veterinary practice, because of its indiscriminate abuse. Firing 
is employed for every and for uo reason. Now recourse is had to it because 
the joints are weak. Then it is adopted because a gentleman is fond of 
seeing his horses scored. Next, it is used to gain time, and thus prolong 
the treatment. Generally it is brought forward because the practitioner 
does not know what else to do. Lastly, it is esteemed the crowning 
measure of routine practice. 

The author, however, has never been necessitated to resort to so vio- 
lent an agent. It is a most unseemly ornament in unprofessional hands ; 
in this book, which is intended for the general public, the use of the 
firing-iron is altogether omitted. 

The knife, especially to the animal, is the most humane of remedies. 
It often affords instant or immediate relief. The animal seems to suffer 
more from the restraint imposed than from the wounds inflicted. The 
chief sensation, with all forms of life, resides in the skin ; so that the 
integument be quickly and effectually divided, the soft parts underneath 
have but little feeling. The interf'^rence with these last rather produces 
faintuess or sickness than acute suffering; the knowledge of which fact 
will embolden many a humane person, though the writer trusts it will 
not be credited by all who are of an opposite character, since boldness, 
unrestrained by humanity, only renders the individual a savage without 
the savage's excuse. 

Such operations as embriotomy, castration, and lithotomy are inten- 
tionally omitted, from a conviction that uo gentleman would undertake 
them ; and because, in every instance, they had better be intrusted to a 
regular veterinary surgeon. 

Before undertaking any operation, always reflect on what you are 
about to do, and make up your mind how you design to do it. Irreso- 
lution causes more suffering than the most perverted determination can 
inflict. It is always well (however much in practice the operator may 
consider himself) to first perform the intended operation upon the dead 
subject. This is a custom which the writer invariably adopted; and 
frequently it has supplied his memory with a refresher which, in the 
hurry of practice, was found a most timely warning. 

Never use small knives. Such things look pretty. The sight of a 
large blade may appear very ugly ; but it does at one movement that 
work which an instrument of notching smallness would not in twenty 
hacks accomplish. Understand thoroughly that which you are about to 
perform, and always choose the tool likely to get through the business 
quickly. Periosteotomy cases were formerly sold by veterinary instru- 
ment makers which contained a knife of moderate doll's dimension. The 



436 OPERATIONS. 

writer, to accomplish the purpose which that little knife was specially 
made for, was accustomed to employ a bistoury larger than those in 
ordinary use among gentlemen of his profession. 

Where you anticipate much bleeding, always endeavor, if possible, to 
divide the main artery with tlie first incision. This is by far the most 
humane, and therefore the safest practice The vessel, being divided, 
can be taken up, and all further flow of blood thereby checked. But if 
the artery be left to the last, it remains to fill the smaller branches. 
These are of necessity frequently severed. Each, as it is cut, bleeds 
more or less freely; thus the hemorrhage is far greater, and the opera- 
tion far more difficult, than if the main trunk had been secured at the 
earliest possible period. 

Always tie both ends of an artery ; because, though the main stream 
flows through that portion of the vessel nearest the heart, yet the other 
half, being fed by the smaller trunks, and the current having a tendency 
to regurgitate, a considerable quantity of the vital fluid may flow out of 
the mouth, which, in general opinion, has no medium of supply. 

If, during an operation, you make an accidental incision into a vessel, 
either take it up, (which is the better way,) or cut it short off" when there 
is a chance of its retracting and of the bleeding being thus arrested. 
Yessels of large size may, when requisite, be excised and tied; the 
vital current being afterward carried on by the dilatation of the lesser 
ducts. 

To tie an artery it is imperative to secure the end of the vessel ; this, 
if possible, should be accomplished with the forceps. When the mouth 
of the vessel is much retracted, it may be necessary to employ the knife ; 
but that practice should be viewed only as the last resort of the profi- 
cient surgeon. 

The end of the artery being fixed and drawn forth, a piece of strong 
silk, thrice twisted, (after the method represented in 
the inferior circle of the annexed illustration,) is 
passed over the vessel. The silk is then drawn tight, 
and will generally remain fixed. However, sad acci- 
dents have occurred by operators trusting to so 
doubtful a security; for that reason it is always 
advisable to make another twist, (as shown in the 
smaller circle of the illustration,) which will render 
the knot secure. 
THK LOUP BY MEANS OF EvcH a vcssbI of thc sccoud magnitude may be 

WHICH THE ENDS OF AR- it, ,i .1 ,■ ^ . 1 i • i 

TERiEs ARE SECURED. Obliterated, as the carotid artery or the jugular vein, 

without life being necessarily sacrificed. However, 

it is always well to spare these parts, or when either is lost to arrange so 




OPERATIONS. 437 

that the absence of them may entail the least possible inconvenience upon 
the animal. Thus, if the carotid artery be lost, place the food low down, 
and thereby aid the flow of blood to the head. If tlie jugular vein be 
destroyed, then put the fodder high up, that the current from the head 
may be facilitated. 

Never, on any account, remove any portion of skin which is not 
involved in some fearful injury, or separated from its attachments by the 
action of disease. 

Skin is the part of the body which is never reproduced, and even the 
place whence it is absent always heals slowly. However loose the skin 
may appear, however disproportioned it may seem after some tumor has 
been removed, respect every particle of it. Before the wound can heal, 
inflammation must set in. That process ended, the skin, under its action, 
will Imve contracted, and in the end there will be only sufficient integu- 
ment to cover the part; whereas, if the slightest amount be excised, to 
such an extent there will for a long time remain a gaping sore. 

Never spare the knife. Think well before you touch that tool; but, 
having it in hand, assure yourself its edge is sharp, and never do at two 
cuts that which might have been accomplished in one. 

Always slit up a sinus where such a proceeding is possible. When 
the sinus is too long, supposing the pipe to take an internal direction, 
as from the withers to the chest, insert a seton with the guarded seton 
needle, a representation of which is given below. 



THE GUARDED SETOX NEEDLE. 

The blade of this instrument is generally about two feet long. Before 
using it, the cutting head is always retracted by pulling back the nut at 
the extremity, and securing it in its place by means of the screw situated 
on the middle of the handle. The blade then reposes upon a blunt 
companion, and may with impunity be inserted down any sinus or false 
canal. Having reached the bottom of the pipe, and all important vessels 
being passed, the screw is loosened, and the projecting end of the blade 
at the extremity of the handle is struck forcibly, when the sharp point 
is driven forward, and this pierces the flesh. 



THE SETON SEEDLE PROTRDDED, AND SECURED WITHIN THE HANDLE BY MEANS OF A SCREW. 

Behind the cutting head there is a free space. Through that opening 
a long piece of tape is threaded, and tlie instrument is withdrawn, pull- 



438 OPERATIONS. 

ing the tape into the sinus, in which it remains. A knot is made at either 
end of the tape ; thus a seton is with safety placed in situations where 
the depth to be penetrated would defy ordinary measures, and the vessels 
to be passed would render such measures more than doubly hazardous. 

The use of a seton is to act as a drain, or to stimulate an unhealthy 
canal — to provoke a sinus to secrete healthy pus, instead of a thin and 
often a foul discharge — and thus to cause the diseased pipe to heal or 
to become obliterated. 

When operating, always make your first incision through the skin 
rather too large than in the least too small ; remember, the division from 
within outward occasions much less pain than the separation, made after 
the ordinary fashion, from without inward. 

Never spare hair ; the substance is readily reproduced. It can be 
wished to be spared only to conceal the fact of an operation having been 
performed. Always refuse to become a party to dishonesty. Do what 
is necessary for the proper performance of your office. The removal of 
hair, which may otherwise interfere with your sight, is essential : there- 
fore cut it off, regardless of any wish to the contrary. 

Instruct your assistants beforehand how to cast the horse; leave that 
business to them : never meddle yourself. The writer has seen veterinary 
surgeons, in their operating dresses, push and haul with the utmost en- 
ergy. Such silly people have doubtless thought themselves exalted by 
this exhibition of violence. It would have been more to their credit 
had they devoted half the energy to teaching their people beforehand. 
But in what condition must their hands and temper be after having taken 
a lead in a struggle with a horse for mastery ! 

A surgeon should always be cool. His head should direct his hand ; 
his knife should be held lightly ; his eye should be quick, and his mind 
prepared to meet any accident. He should do his office neatly, and, if 
possible, without soiling his person. The ripping cut and the bloody 
hands alone distinguish the ignorant butcher from the scientific operator. 

During every operation enjoin the strictest silence upon the specta- 
tors. The horse is never vicious, but it is always timid. Sounds have 
a powerful effect upon animals which cannot understand speech. Every 
word uttered, even in a whisper, should be of assurance to the sufferer ; 
for the horse is only to be feared in its efforts to escape from some sup- 
posed peril. It becomes mad in its alarm. It then puts forth its strength 
and exerts it without regard to consequences. Man has everything to 
hope from the fortitude and noble forbearance of the creature. It re- 
sponds to kindness with something more than submission ; it answers 
sympathy by the most entire confidence and utter dependence. The life, 
the feeling, the natural powers are all subservient to the great love which 



OPERATIONS. 439 

is embodied in a horse's attachment. There is not among created beings 
one which has so large a sympathy ; the horse must attach itself to 
something ; to love seems essential to its being. The stable in which it 
is captive the patient prisoner learns to regai'd, as it were, a palace. 
The pace is always more willing when returning to captivity ; freedom 
has no charm ; the field has no allurement to the horse which has lived 
any time in the most crimped, confined, and uncomfortable of stalls. It 
will quit the spring grass to be fastened once more in the place to which 
it has been accustomed and has grown attached. 

Then, however much removed from itself, it must pour the richest of 
its aS'ections on some animal, should man, in pride, refuse to accept the 
offering. Creatures the most opposite have been the horse's favorite. 
How often do we hear of the liking formed between a goat, a dog, a cat, 
and the horse ! Love has a strange freemasonry of its own ; how else 
can we account for the larger creature being able to make its longing 
understood by the smaller life ? There may, however, be between ani- 
mals some substitute for language ; but we can hardly suppose any rec- 
ognized signs exist between birds and the equine species. Yet a famous 
animal-painter had a pony which formed a violent and lasting affection 
for a bantam cock. These two used to march side by side up and down 
the field in which the larger animal was confined ; for so very expansive 
is the horse's love that it will embrace not only its abode, but some life, 
however distant apparently from its own. 

The voice of the person who is accustomed to groom and feed the 
animal, if he has been only ordinarily humane in the performance of his 
office, will at all times reassure the beating heart of a prostrated horse. 
But vast injustice to the animal's better qualities is done by the mode 
of casting it. It is violently jerked off its legs ; by a sudden pull it is 
thrown "with a burster" upon its side. There it struggles. If mastery 
sides with the animal, then let the men be speedy in their flight. The 
quadruped, in its fear, designs no harm to any person. It means only to 
escape from the terrible danger which encompasses it. Still, it is re- 
gardless in its alarm, and may do more injury than the most evil inten- 
tion could accomplish. There is an engraving of the method of casting 
horses commencing this chapter. Let the capable reader imagine the 
eff'ect produced upon the timid quadruped when it is violently flung upon 
the earth with a sound well denominated "a burster." 

The horse is much better made to lie down gently, after the method 
adopted by Mr. Rarey. Half, and far more than half, the terror excited 
by an operation may thus be avoided. The confusion and bustle, con- 
joined with violence, which naturally attend "casting," must make a 
lasting impression upon the retentive mind of the animal, and, we may 



440 OPERATIONS. 

suppose, must aggravate the paiu, thus materially endangering the result 
of an operation. The hobbles may be fixed quite as readily when the 
horse is down as when the animal is standing. Nay, they may be fixed 
more readily, as the horse, when down, has lost three-fourths of its 
power, 

Mr. Rarey's method of throwing the most unruly animal is thus 
described by that gentleman : — 

" Everything that we want to teach the horse must be commenced in 
some way to give him an idea of what you want him to do, and then be 
repeated till he learns it perfectly. To make a horse lie down, bend his 
left fore leg and slip a loop over it, so that he cannot get it down. Then 
put a surcingle around his body, and fasten one end of a long strap 
around the other fore leg just above the hoof. Place the other end 
under the surcingle, so as to keep the strap in the right direction ; take 
a short hold of it with your right hand ; stand on the left side of the 
horse, grasp the bit in your left hand, pull steadily on the strap with 
your right ; bear against his shoulder till you cause him to move. As 
soon as he lifts his weight, your pulling will raise the other foot, and he 
will have to come on his knees. Keep the strap tight in your hand, so 
that he cannot straighten his leg if he rises up. Hold him in this posi- 
tion, and turn his head toward you ; bear against his side with your 
shoulder — not hard, but with a steady, equal pressure — and in about ten 
minutes he will lie down. As soon as he lies down he will be completely 
conquered, and you can handle him as you please. Take off" the straps, 
and straighten out his legs ; rub him lightly about the face and neck 
with your hand the way the hair lies ; handle all his legs ; and, after he 
has lain ten or twenty minutes, let him get up again. After resting him 
a short time, make him lie down as before. Repeat the operation three 
or four times, which will be sufficient for one lesson. Give him two les- 
sons a day ; and when you have given him four lessons, he will lie down 
by taking hold of one foot. As soon as he is well broken to lie down 
in this way, tap him on the opposite leg with a stick when you take hold 
of his foot, and in a few days he will lie down from the mere motion of 
the stick." 

What prevents the hobbles being buckled on ? What prevents all 
necessary arrangements being carried out? What, indeed, but the stub- 
bornness inseparable from ignorance ! Veterinary surgeons, as a rule, 
are not an educated class. In proportion as their information is limited, 
so is their adherence to established custom likely to be intractable. 

There are, besides the hobbles, two other inventions designed to limit 
the capability of resistance. One is the side line. A soft collar is put 
over the horse's head and a hobble is fastened to the foot it is desired 



OPERATIONS. 



141 




THE SIDE LINE. 



to have elevated. From the collar is dependant a metal loop, rmg, or 

other contrivance. By the side of this a strong rope is attached. The 

cord is then passed through the D 

of the hobble; afterward it is 

brought back and ran through the 

side ring or loop. A man then 

takes hold of the end of the rope, 

and, by gradual traction, causes the 

leg to be advanced. It is neither 

wise nor humane to drag the foot 

off the ground. A hOrse which will 

stand quiet with both feet resting 

on the earth, is rendered restless 

when one leg is fastened in the air. 

The occasion which makes it imperative to apply the side line is, 
when the hocks or hinder parts are examined. Many unbroken horses, 
though quiet in other respects, will not allow these portions of the body 
to be touched. By causing one leg to be advanced, the other is deprived 
of all power as a weapon of offense. The horse would obviously fall, 
if he were to project the only free hind member ; and the timidity of the 
creature indisposes it to incur so vast an indignity. 

The other invention is the double side line. A rope is fixed to a loop 
on either side. The loop or ring is attached to a soft collar. The rope 
is afterward threaded through 
a hobble on each pastern. Both 
legs are then gently pulled for- 
ward, and the animal, having its 
posterior supports drawn from 
under it, comes to the earth. 
The ropes are held tight while 
the horse is turned upon its 
back. The instant it is in that, 
position, somebody seats himself 
upon the head, while the body of 
the animal is propped up by 
numerous trusses of straw. 

This last is but an imperfect 
method of casting. In general 
it is rendered still more cruel by the abuse to which it is subject. Tlip 
ropes are commonly pulled with an utter disregard to the living body 
upon which they operate. The hind legs are often drawn to the shoul- 
ders, and frequently additional cords are employed to make the poor 




THE POUBLE SIDE LINE. 



442 OPERATIONS. 

creatures more distorted and more fixed. Has man any cause to wonder 
at a horse being occasionally what is called "vicious," when the un- 
reasoning creature is thus fearfully operated upon ? Is it not rather a 
proof of the horse's intelligence that it can recognize the cause of its 
suffering, and study ever after to repel its tormentor ? 

Let the horse be thrown down after the admirable method introduced 
by Mr. Rarey. Let it then be hobbled, and never, during the operation, 
hear any sound but soothing accents. Animals do not understand words, 
1)ut they are quick readers of characteristics. The language itself these 
creatures may not be able to literally interpret; but they comprehend 
all which the manner conveys. When kindness is' expressed, the mean- 
ing is felt, though the verbiage be lost: it is astonishing how animals 
will enter into the intention of speech ! How home kind language 
seems to go to the ignorant heart, and how true it is that a gentle word 
is never thrown away 1 It is surprising to observe the affection by which 
the human race is surrounded ; they live and walk among animals eager 
for permission to adore them, anxious to love and to serve them ; but it 
is lamentable to see how an evil spirit repels the feeling which pervades 
all nature. 

There is another point upon which the writer presumes to offer ad- 
vice. Veterinary surgeons display ignorance in nothing more than in 
being servile copyists. They do not view their sphere of science as a 
separate and distinct branch. They always will strive to follow the 
example of human practitioners even to particulars. There is no dif- 
ference in the dissecting knives used at the King's College and the Royal 
Veterinary establishment, though bodies of different bulks are studied 
in each school. The operating knives of most veterinary surgeons are 
ridiculously small for such purposes. The consequence is, the animal 
is much longer down than is absolutely necessary. The author has 
known one hour employed in dressing a quittor; whereas six sinuses 
ought to be laid open and dressed in less than five minutes. A vast 
deal of time is thus wasted; although the opposition to Mr. Rarey's 
method of throwing will, doubtless, be the length of time it would 
occupy. However, granting the objection ; which is the surgeon bound 
to consider — the welfare of his patient or his own convenience ? It is 
not every day that the gentleman who enjoys the largest practice has to 
cast a horse. It is, in fact, a somewhat rare and an exceptional occur- 
rence. Could not the most engaged man devote an occasional half hour 
to the benefit of his profession ? 

When operating upon living flesh, always have your knives rather too 
large than in any measure too small. The work is performed quicker; 
besides, the hands are kept at some distance from the wound, and the 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



443 



eyes thereby are enabled to direct their movements. The probability 
of mistakes is thus lessened, and no man, with a knife in his hand and 
bleeding flesh under his eyes, has a right to expose himself to the pos- 
sibility of an error which, of course, is not to be erased or atoned for. 

Should a horse, when under the knife, struggle, do not attempt to 
contend with the animal. Immediately leave hold of your instruments, 
and withdraw your person out of danger. Allow your knife, etc. to 
remain ; it will seldom be displaced, or, if cast out of the wound, can 
be easily reintroduced; whereas, did you endeavor to snatch away or 
to retain your hold, the most lamentable consequences might be the 
result. 

Another caution, and this part of the writer's office is concluded. 
When you operate upon a leg, have that limb uppermost, unless your 
incision is made upon the inner side. Have the foot placed upon a 
pillow or sack stuffed with straw, and a strong webbing put around the 




hoof. The webbing give to a man who is to pull at it. The dragging 
sensation renders the horse inclined to retract the member; therefore 
place yourself in front of the limb, or on the same side as the man who 
holds the webbing. The fore leg, when advanced, cannot be readily 
employed as a weapon of offense, and the hind limb is always, when 
used in defense, projected backward. 



OPERATIONG— TRACHEOTOMY. 

This operation is, perhaps, the most humane recourse of veterinary 
surgery. Neurotomy may save the horse from greater and longer suf- 
fering; but tracheotomy is performed, unlike the former operation, 
upon an animal in an unconscious state. Difficult respiration, either 
from tumor pressing upon the larynx, infiltration upon the lining mem- 
brane of the larynx, or choking from various causes, produces imperfect 



444 OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 

oxygenation of the blood. The vital current being impure, of course 
the brain which it nurtures is not in a condition of health or activity. 
The consciousness is impaired or altogether destroyed ; and immediate 
relief is experienced after the performance of the operation. The re- 
covery is as rapid as the previous symptoms were alarming. The altered 
aspect of the animal is as though the body were resuscitated. In certain 
cases, where every breath is drawn in pain, the ease afforded by trache- 
otomy is most marked. It makes little difference to Nature, by what 
means the air is inhaled, so that a sufficiency of diluted oxygen come in 
contact with the absorbing membrane of the lungs. This, when the 
larynx is closed or diseased, tracheotomy permits to be accomplished. 
It is equally beneficial, safe, and humane. However ugly its description 
may read, it is in practice to be strongly recommended. 

The general fault with veterinary sugeons is the delay which com- 
monly pushes off the operation to the last moment. In this delay the 
proprietor is, perhaps, equally or even more at fault. Hope leads the 
owner on to the very last, and even then it is with reluctant horror that 
consent is given "to cut the horse's throat." Such is the term by which 
certain practitioners characterize tracheotomy; and though it is uttered 
merely as a joke, yet it creates an impression which acts against a harm- 
less operation. 

In agricultural districts, the veterinarian is frequently knocked up at 
night by a messenger, who announces "Farmer Hodges's horse be a 
dying." The farmer may live several miles off in the country; and the 
reluctant sleeper hurries on his clothes to obey the implied summons. 

In due time the pair reach farmer Hodge's homestead. It needs no 
finger to point out the stable. The sound of laborious breathing effect- 
ually notifies it. However, the practitioner, upon entrance into the 
place, is horrified to find himself there with no better company than 
a boy and a rapidly-sinking animal. The circumstances demand other 
assistance. The horse doctor cannot help giving voice to his require- 
ments. The lad hearing this, says hastily he will fetch somebody very 
soon — hangs up the lantern and vanishes into the darkness. 

Minutes pass and no footfall greets the ear. The divisions of the 
hour are struck by the village church, and still no sound of returning 
steps. The animal becomes worse and worse. In its disabled state it 
fears to lie down, as that position impedes the breathing. In its efforts 
to stand, it reels about — now falling to one side and then to the other. 
Yet the departed messenger does not return. The veterinarian finds 
the limits of delay are passed : ten minutes more and the quadruped 
will be down. He takes out his lancet. One foot from the breast- 
bone, and as near the center of the neck as the rocking motion of the 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 445 

horse or the flickering light of the lantern will allow him to aim, he 
plunges the blade deeply into the flesh, if possible at one cut dividing 
the cartilages of the trachea. He has little control over the incision. 
Frequently a gash results from the tottering of the animal. Mostly he 
divides more than he would have done had daylight and assistance been 
afforded him. 

The incision being made, the fingers are thrust into the wound to 
Iceep the division open. At first this may be difficult; but as time 




\\A 




1^ 
hi' 



TRACHEOTOMY, A3 PERFORMED UNDER DIFFICULTIES — A COMMON OCCURRENCE. 

proceeds, the standing of the horse becomes firmer and the breathing 
less noisy. The veterinarian is, however, impatient at the delay and 
his enforced position. He is just beginning to despair, when the mes- 
senger returns, accompanied by a sleepy companion. Both are sur- 
prised at the condition of the horse, and, not observing the wound, 
imagine the animal has been cured by magic. However, to the demands 
of the equine medical attendant, nothing like a tracheotomy tube is to 
be invented. At last the spout of the tea kettle is thought of; and the 
good dame awakens in the morning to find her kettle demolished and 
its spout thrust into the "plaguy horse's throat." 

It is the curse of veterinary surgery, that nobody appears to under- 
stand when an operation is required. The practitioner, therefore, is 
seldom prepared for its performance. The circumstances allow him 
little time to think, and none to return or to fetch the necessary instru- 
ments. 

However, when he has proper time and choice, he should always 
make a free incision through the skin and panniculus carnosus. Make 
this opening about one-third up the neck, measuring from the chest. It 



446 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. 



is more general to open the windpipe at a similar distance from the jaw, 
and, assuredly, the superior incision has this advantage, that there is 
less to cut through. But where no important nerves or vessels are en- 
dangered, surgery cares little about the depth of a wound, the chief 
attention being given to the probable after-consequences. 

The superior portion of the neck is especially the seat of motion ; it 
varies with every turn and movement of the head. Hence the end of 
the tube is apt to be brought into constant contact with the lining mem- 
brane of the trachea, and horses have been slaughtered with huge 
tracheal abscesses, to all appearance produced solely by wearing the 
tracheotomy tube. 

To avoid this danger the author chooses for incision a spot nearer to 
the chest, whei'e the motion is less constant and not so varied. Even 
at this last place all danger is not entirely surmounted, in consequence 
of which a horse, while wearing a tracheotomy tube, should never be 
permitted to feed from the ground. 





DIAGRAM, SHOWING THE STRUCTURES TO BE 
INTERFERED WITH DURING THE PERFORM- 
ANCE OF TRACHEOTOMY. 



THE MANNER IN WHICH THE CARTILAGES 
OF THE TRACHEA ARE TO BE EXCISED. 



1. 1. The sterno-maxillares muscles — a pair — have to he separated, being joined by fine cellular tissue. 

2. The sterno-thyro-hyoidei muscles, lying under the first pair, also have to be divided, being similarly 
united. 

3. The trachea, which is fully exposed when the above muscles are disunited. 



At the commencement, when the operator has leisure, he generally 
does not cut too deep. The first incision fairly divides the skin and 
panniculus carnosus quite in the middle of the neck, and is rather longer 
than a by-stander would deem to be absolutely necessary. The elasticity 
of the skin will somewhat shorten the opening, while the torture of 



OPERATIONS — TRACHEOTOMY. U7 

repeated enlargements will be avoided, and the more important struc- 
tures beneath the skin will be fairly brought into view. 

In the center of your division will appear two long muscles, joined 
together by a fine cellular union ; that union you are to separate ; it 
consists only of cellular tissue, and will necessitate more care than ex- 
ertion. Underneath the divided muscles will be found two others, 
smaller and paler, but also joined together by means of fine cellular 
tissue. These are also to be sundered, and then the trachea lies 
exposed. There is neither nerve, nor artery, nor vein to avoid, nor to 
take up in the performance of tracheotomy. All consists in making 
your primary incision large enough, and, subsequently, in not attempt- 
ing more than the division of two pairs of muscles. 

The commencement of the incision should be made at the spot already 
indicated. After the skin is cut through and the muscles are divided, 
two assistants should be obtained to hold them back, while a circular 
piece is excised from the cartilages of the exposed trachea. 

The trachea is formed of numerous cartilaginous rings each half an 
inch wide, but so united by elastic tissue that the whole forms one con- 
tinuous tube reaching from the head to the chest of a horse. If possi- 
ble, only two of these rings are to be interfered with ; that is, a half 
circle should be cut out of each, which, with the elastic connecting 
medium, will make an opening of one inch in diameter. Both the rings, 
however, should be perfectly divided ; but a half circle should be excised 
from one, leaving a portion of cartilage to keep the remainder in its 
place. This matter, probably, may be made more clear by the engraving 
on the opposite page. 

After the first half circle is made, or when a portion is cut off the first 
cartilage, that piece should be bent outward. The elastic connecting 
substance will readily permit this to be done, and the current of fresh 
air admitted will considerably refresh the animal. The cartilage being 
bent outward, it should be leisurely transfixed by means of a sharp 
needle armed with strong twine. The string may be fastened to the 
button-hole of the operator's waistcoat, and afterward the circle be 
leisurely completed. 

The twine is necessary because the spasmodic breathing has drawn the 
excised portion of cartilage upon the lungs, and thereby done as much 
mischief as the operator designed to do good. By bending the half 
circle outward, some relief is afforded to the breathing, and the charac- 
ter of the respiration partially benefited. The process is, however, ren- 
dered more safe by the employment of the loop ; but care should be 
taken, when subsequently using the knife, not to cut the string. There- 
fore, before the circle is completed, the cartilage should be bent back- 



448 



OPERATIONS— TRACHEOTOMY. 



ward, as shown in the previous engraving, then laid hold of, and, when 
firmly grasped, the excision ought to be perfected. 

A tube has to be worn afterward; this is put into the opening, and 
fastened in by means of a strap or tape passed round the neck. There are 
many tubes sold by the instrument makers for this purpose; the majority, 
however, are far too large. None should be beyond one inch in diame- 
ter. The horse only requires to inhale part of the air through the can- 
ula, the remainder coming, as before, through the larynx. A free space 
of one inch is, therefore, plenty to admit the deficient oxygen ; for no 
animal could live through an operation, were air, previous to its com- 
mencement or daring its continuance, altogether excluded. 

The best instrument for hasty and temporary tracheotomy is the 
invention of Mr. T. W. Gowing, of Camden Town. To insert this can- 
ula no cartilage need be excised ; a puncture is made with a knife 




MR. T. W. GOWING'S TRACHEOTOMY TUBE. 

A. The cannla, with a shifting shield, armerl with the pointed trocar. 

B. The trocar withdrawn from the canula. showing its peculiar construction. 

C. The canula fitted into the horse's trachea, showing how the movable shield may be adapted, by 

means of a screw, to the size of the horse or the swollen condition of the parts. 



through the connecting medium of the tracheal rings, and through this 
puncture the tube is driven. It is of all use for temporary or immediate 
service, but obviously would not do for a continuance. 

The objection to tracheotomy, when designed to last for any period, is 
that the canula, by irritating the lining membrane of the larynx, is apt 
to provoke abscess, which impedes the breathing to a degree that destroys 
the life. The author has seen some fearful instances of this effect ; but 
of all tubes, that invented by the French seems to be least open to this 
objection. 



OPERATIONS— PERIOSTEOTOMY. 



449 



OPERATIONS— PERIOSTEOTOMY. 

This operation was first applied to the horse by the late Professor 
Sewell. It is intended to relieve the lameness consequent upon exostosis 




A PAIR OP KOWELING SCISSORS, FOR 
MAKING SMALL INCISIONS THROUGH 
THE horse's SKIN. 



A SETON NEEDLE ARMED WITH A TAPE, A, AND FIXED INTO 
A HOLLOW HANDLE BY MEANS OP A SCREW, B. 



situated on the shin-bone. A pair of roweling scissors are first employed 
to snip the skin above and below the tumor. Then a blunt seton needle. 




A BLUNT SETON NEEDLE. 



A TUMOR BEING CUT WITH A PROBE-POINTED KNIFE. 



being fixed into a hollow handle by means of a screw, and armed with a 
tape knotted at one end, is to be used. The needle is violently driven 
through, and breaks down the cellular tissue which attaches the skin to 
the tumor. The point is forced to enter at one snip and come out at 
the other, after which the needle is withdrawn by the first opening. A 
probe-pointed knife is then introduced into the space thus made ; the tu- 
mor is sliced into as many pieces as may please the operator or the nature 
of the growth will admit of. The knife is afterward retracted, and the 
needle, released from the handle, is passed through the openings, or in 
at one snip and out at the other. The knot at the end of the tape pre- 
vents that being drawn after the needle. The unknotted end is next 
withdrawn from the needle and tied into a large knot — the whole form- 
ing a seton. The operation is occasionally varied by smearing the tape 
with terebinthinate of cantharides, and sometimes by blistering over 

29 



450 



OPERATIONS — PERIOSTEOTOMY. 




A horse's LEO TVITH 
TWO SNIPS UPON IT, 
C C, OUT OF WHICH 
HANG THE TWO 
KNOTTED ENDS OP 
A SETON, D D. 



tumor, seton and all. This last practice may add to the severity of the 
operation, but it seems calculated to do little good. Breaking down 
the attachment of the skin and slicing the tumor appear 
designed to deprive the growth of blood, while a blister 
seems calculated to draw to the part an excess of that 
which the operation was intended to dispel. 

Periosteotomy is not very highly esteemed by the 
vast majority of practitioners. It is, however, some- 
times very successful. A horse is thrown, being dead 
lame ; the animal gets up from the hands of the surgeon 
and trots sound. It is difficult, however, to predicate 
the quadruped on which it will thus act. Certainly the 
operation is best adapted to young horses ; but even to 
all of these it will not prove beneficial. It is therefore 
looked upon as a surgical experiment, quite as apt to 
disappoint as to please. The seton, moreover, is dis- 
posed to cause the edges of the holes through which it 
passes to indurate. A blemish which it takes some 
months to eradicate is the consequence ; and this, added to the expense 
attendant upon treatment, is not apt to prove pleasing to horse proprie- 
tors, especially when the operation altogether fails. 

A modification of periosteotomy might perhaps be tried. Omit the 
seton altogether ; make an inferior snip with the scissors ; introduce a 
sharp-pointed needle, and cat a channel. Then insert a probe-pointed 
bistoury, and incise the tumor. If periosteotomy were to prove suc- 
cessful, it probably would be so in this shape. The author has seen small 
benefit result from the after-use of the seton, and by operating in the 
manner proposed all the subsequent blemish would be avoided. The 
cut would soon heal and leave no scar behind : thus the grand objec- 
tion to the performance of periosteotomy, as it now stands, would be 
removed. 

The motive for the above proposal is to spare the suffering of the 
animal. If the hair is cut short previously, and pressure made above 
the snip of the scissors, the wound need occasion little pain. A sharp 
point cutting its way through the cellular tissue would not cause one 
tithe of the agony which follows the use of a blunt instrument necessa- 
rily tearing, stretching, and breaking a passage through a living body. 
Cartilage or bone in a state of health has small sensibility. The em- 
ployment of the knife would therefore provoke no struggle, while all 
the after-torture of a seton applied directly to the surface of a wound 
would be avoided. 

Perhaps it would be best to bind a broad tape, with a cork under it 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 451 

and upon the vessels, round the leg before the operation, thereby press- 
ing on the nerve and cutting oflF the supply of blood. This would prob- 
ably deprive the leg of all sensation. The most severe part of this 
method of periosteotomy would be the after-consequences. The incised 
tumor would inflame ; the vacant channel would have to unite. The 
one would occasion agony, the other be probably attended with violent 
itching. The limb, therefore, should be bandaged, even though a wound 
upon the horse's body does not do so well when covered up. The band- 
age, however, will prevent the animal from injuring the sore leg with the 
opposite shoe, which a horse may be provoked to attempt by that irrita- 
tion which attends the healing process. 

OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 

Neurotomy is the division of the nerve which supplies the hoof of the 
fore leg with sensation. The foot of the horse being moved through 
tendons by muscles from above, and having in itself no muscular power, 
obviously has no occasion for a motor nerve. Consequently the nerve 
running to the foot is wholly sentient. It is the means of communica- 
tion through which pain or pleasure is transmitted from the hoof to the 
brain. 

To take away a portion of this nerve is evidently to separate the 
medium of such communication. Feeling can no more travel along a 
divided nerve than electricity can along a broken wire. The knowledge 
of this fact has led to a portion of the nerve being excised ; and the 
doing of this has been named neurotomy. 

A nerve is a very compound structure. It is composed of numerous 
fine filaments or small threads bound together by a cellular sheath called 
neurilema. Healthy nerve feels firm, and has a brilliant white appear- 
ance ; unhealthy nerve is of a yellowish tint, and is of a less solid texture. 

The operation of neurotomy is certain relief, but that relief is of un- 
certain duration. The divided nerve, after a time, reunites. The junction 
thus formed carries on all the functions of the perfect structure ; but a 
bulb is left behind at the place of union. This bulb is to be easily felt 
by pressing upon the seat of neurotomy externally with the points of 
the fingers ; and the bulb being felt leads to a knowledge that the horse 
has been subjected to the operation. Neurotomy, therefore, can never 
be concealed, if pains are bestowed upon its detection. The operation, 
however, is not successful in every case. 

In some animals, the wound has just closed when junction seems to 
be formed between the divided ends of the nerve. The lameness then 
returns as acutely as ever. 



452 OPERATIONS — NEUROTOMY. 

In others, the horse will proceed to work, and continue sound ever 
after — the restored power to use the foot having, in the last case, seem- 
ingly destroyed the affection. 

Some animals are subjected to operation so late that disease has had 
time to weaken the pedal structures. The consequence is that no sooner 
does the absence of feeling tempt the horse to throw his entire weight 
upon the foot than the navicular bone fractures or the perforans tendon 
ruptures. 

Certain horses, from a tingling sensation in the neurotomized foot — 
similar to that felt by men in the imaginary fingers of an arm which has 
been amputated — will stamp violently till they injure it and provoke 
suppuration ; while other feet are so irritable that the head is bent down- 
ward and large pieces from the hoof literally bitten off. To account for 
this last circumstance the reader must remember that, though the foot 
seems to itch, it in reality has no sensation to preserve it from the teeth 
of the provoked animal. 

Cases occasionally happen of horses having picked up nails, or having 
incurred wounds in the foot, which, being deprived of feeling, the animal 
wanted the power to recognize. No lameness was exhibited, and the 
injury was necessarily unattended to. The foot has been left alone till 
the hurt has induced mortification. 

Weak feet have not been able to endure the consequences of opera- 
tion. They have sustained no external injury, but the heaviness of tread 
attendant on a loss of sensation has so battered the senseless member 
that suppuration has been induced. The hoof has therefore been cast 
off and the horse been destroyed, although it was discovered in the stable 
standing with the utmost composure upon the bleeding and exposed 
flesh. 

These are a few of the diaagi'eeables attending a most humane and 
successful operation. The first requisite for the performance of neurot- 
omy is a sound knowledge of anatomy. A familiar acquaintance with 
the course of the nerve is essential. It descends in two main branches 
from the knee, one on either side of the leg. It travels in company with 
and behind the artery and vein on the inner side of the fore limb. On 
the outer side it is accompanied by no vessel. About the center of the 
leg, however, the two nerves are united by a branch which travels over 
the perforans tendon, connecting the sentient fibers of either side. It is 
therefore essential, in the performance of neurotomy, to make the pri- 
mary incision rather low down, especially if it is meant that the high 
operation should be accomplished, or that all sensation should be de- 
stroyed on one side by a single division. 

At the pastern the nerve divides ; the posterior branch runs direct to 



OPERATIONS — NEUROTOMY. 



453 



the frog. The anterior branch travels in front of the artery for some 
distance, when it takes a more forward course, dividing into several 
separate branches. 

The generality of operators remove about an inch of the main trunk 
before the nerve divides, or above the pastern ; and the result certainly 
confirms the soundness of such a practice. 

The nerve of the frog is, however, frequently ex- 
cised. The objection to this is the junction of a 
filament of the anterior branch with the nerve below 
the excision. That union should deprive the opera- 
tion of all effect ; but, notwithstanding, the division 
is sometimes beneficial. The operation is, however, 
never certain ; and to that circumstance the propri- 
etor must make up his mind when he sanctions its 
performance. 

Always examine minutely any horse submitted to 
you for neurotomy. Do this to discover if the op- 
eration has been previously performed — the object 
being that you may thereby be prepared for some 
trouble in mastering the retentive consciousness of 
the animal ; likewise, that by such inquiries you 
may decide upon the benefit likely to result from 
the operation ; also, that you may be warned of a 
bloody and tedious job. The leg which has previously been subjected 
to neurotomy becomes doubly vascular. "We know of no reason to 
account for this phenomenon, excepting it may denote the cost at which 
nature repairs her higher order of structures. 




THE COURSE OF THE 
NERVH EXPvJSED. 

a. Denotes the nerve 
of the frog. 





A HORIZONTAL INCISION, WITH THE HAIR 
CLIPPED ABOVE THE OPENING. 



A PERPENDICULAR INCISION, WITH THE HAIR CUT OFF 
ABOVE AND ON THE SIDES OP THE WOUND. 



Before you consent to operate upon any animal, examine the feet. If 
fhe hoof is weak or even weakly, refuse at once. If the hoof be strong 
and thick, the wall upright, and the frog small, you may consent, with 
the best hopes of success. Have such a horse put into the stable, and 



454 



OPERATIONS — NEUEOTOMY. 




the diseased foot or feet kept wet for a week prior to the operation. 
This frequently has tlie effect of constringing the arteries, greatly de- 
priving the part of blood. That result renders the use of the knife more 
cleanly and more easy. Two days prior to the important one have the 
hair cut short over the place or places where you design to make your 
incisions. By so doing, all chance of hair getting into and irritating 
the wound will be effectually destroyed. This may happen, and, should 
the hair be left on, much delay will be occasioned, while the animal's 
sufferings must be augmented if the hair be clipped after the horse is 
down for operation. 

Never operate upon a horse with the hair uncut — leave that to parties 
who league with the lowest class of horse-cheats. Cut off hair two 

days beforehand. Make an incision 
through the skin about three-quarters 
to one inch long. Have a needle and 
thread ready — a strong surgeon's needle 
and a stout twine. Pierce the divided 
skin from the inside to the outside, leav- 
ing a moderate piece of twine hang- 
ing out of the wound. Carry the twine 
under the leg, and pierce the integument 
on the other margin of the wound — also 
from the interior to the exterior. Then bring the piece of twine left 
hanging out of the first puncture and the needle together, at the back 
of the leg. Slightly tighten the twine ; fasten these two ends in a bow, 
and the effect will be to keep the sides of the incision asunder. 

If you design to perform the high operation, choose a spot a little 
above the pastern, and incise the skin at one cut, if px)ssible. The high 
operation is most approved of for general purposes, and, as before re- 
marked, destroys sensation in the entire hoof. Some proprietors think 
it well to leave a little feeling in the forward portion of the foot, which 
is free from disease. This is done to escape those results that have 
already been enumerated as the effects of total insensibility. The high 
operation is, therefore, performed only on one side, and the posterior or 
low division on the other. There are two spots at which the low oper- 
ation may be accomplished. The author has given the reader a repre- 
sentation of the anatomy of the leg. He presents a view on page 455, 
of the places where the incisions can be made. 

Either of the lower operations, regarded by itself, is very uncertain 
in its effect; and, if taken both together, they present no advantage 
over the superior opening. 

These remarks may be better comprehended, by comparing this 



THE MODE OF FASTENING BACK THE SIDE 
OF A PERPENDICULAR TfOUND. 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 455 

engraving with the course of the nerve shown in the previous illus- 
tration. 

When the skin is divided — supposing the horse is neurotomized for 
the first time — nothing is visible but white-looking cellular tissue. This 
must be carefully dissected away with a pair of forceps and a scalpel. 
Dissect on until the nerve and artery are exposed plainly to view. 
Then take a crooked needle and thread. Pierce the nerve — this you 
may do fearlessly. The author has not known it to produce pain. 




The superior opening represents the place where one side of the foot may be deprived of sensation by 
a single division. 

The two middle incisions denote the part where either the fore or after portion of the foot may, per- 
haps, be rendered void of sensation. 

The two inferior cuts suggest tlie situations where, probably, the parts of the foot toward which the 
incisions point may be made insensible. 

The fibers composing the nerve are so fine that the needle's point is 
blunt when compared with them. It, therefore, glides through them 
without pricking any of the filaments. 

If the horse has been operated upon before, you must expect a tedious 
and sanguinary business. It is then of all importance to obtain a very 
attentive and equally nimble man to take the sponge. Blood will fol- 
low every movement of the knife. However, with each cut you must 
retract the hand, and the man who has care of the sponge must quickly, 
surely, and forcibly cleanse the wound. When the sponge is withdrawn, 
for an instant, and for an instant only, is there a clear view of the part. 
The operator must be ready to make the most of that glimpse ; for, the 
next moment, blood flows over the lips of the orifice and all is concealed 
from view. Thus we proceed, rather snipping than cutting, taking 
away particles instead of flakes of cellular tissue, till the nerve is ex- 
posed. Then it is fixed with the needle as before directed. 

The nerve being caught, withdraw the needle, leaving the thread 



456 



OPERATIONS— NEUROTOMY. 




THE LOOP RAISING THE NERVE WHILE THE KNIFE LOOSENS 
ITS INFERIOR ATTACHMENTS. 



behind. Tie both ends of the thread together, and insert the first finger 
of your left hand into the loop thus formed. By gentle traction raise 

the nerve a little, and with the 
knife release its inferior attach- 
ments. Then let the man who 
held the sponge make pressure 
with all his force upon the 
artery and nerve above the in- 
cision. After this has been 
done about a minute, and by 
the stoppage of the circulation 
you may conclude the sensation 
to be in some degree numbed, 
insert the blade of the knife 
under that portion of the nerve which is nearest the body, and cut 
boldly upward. 

A spasm mostly follows the division; but it is of short duration. 
Afterward dissect about one inch of the nerve from its attachments, 
and remove this inch from the main trunk. No sign of feeling will 
follow the excision when made lower down. All communication with 
the brain has been cut off by the previous division, and the sensorium 
no longer takes notice of any violence offered to that part of the body 
which has been isolated. 

Next, having sponged the part, close the wound by means of a pin 
forced through the lips of the orifice. Then 
twist a little tow round -it in the form of a 
figure of 8. That being finished, so much of 
the point as protrudes is to be removed with a 
pair of wire nippers ; a bandage is then put on ; 
and, if both sides of the limb are to be neu- 
rotomized, the horse is turned over. All being 
acconaplished, return the horse to the stable, 
but watch the pin which fastens the wound. If 
THE BEST WAY TO CLOSE THE WOUND tho Incisiou coutiuues dry, the pin may not be 

CONSEQUENT UPON NEUROTOMY. -, •it • ^ • t i • n 1 

removed till six days have expired; but ii the 
slightest appearance of pus be suspected, immediately withdraw the pin, 
and remove the tow, treating the part with solution of chloride of zinc, 
as though it were a common wound. 

There are various knives invented for the performance of neurotomy. 
That the writer most approves of was the invention of Mr. Woodger, 
the admirably practical veterinary surgeon of Bishops Mews, Padding- 
ton. The author has used this instrument himself, and seen it guided 




OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



457 



by other hands. In every case it has expedited the operation and 
thereby shortened the period of the animal's suffering. 

The after-treatment of neurotomy consists in letting well alone, if all 
goes on rightly. Should pus make its appearance, bathe the wounds, 
thrice daily, with the solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water. Remove the bandages from the legs after the horse has 




MR. WOODGER'S neurotomy K^'IFE. 

To use this instrument. — After the nerve is raised, insert the crooked point, with the edge toward the 
body of the horse; then drive the knife forward. By this simple means the cutting portion of the Made 
is brought violently in contact with the uerve, which is excised at the proper point, and about an inch is 
left hanging out below the incision. 



entered the stable. The incisions heal more readily when exposed to 
the stimulating effects of the air. Place a cradle round the horse's neck, 
and feed liberally. Avoid all pur- 
gative medicine ; you now want an 
injury repaired, and do not desire to 
reduce the vital energy. 

When the wounds have healed, the 
horse may be gradually taken once 
more to work, but it should not be 
fully used. Excessive and too early 
labor is the cause of the many serious 
objections taken to a merciful oper- 
ation. The horse for some period 
does not feel his foot. He does not 
flex the pastern as the hoof nears the 

ground. The foot is placed flat upon the earth, and with a kind of sen- 
sible jar, as though the animal had made "a false step." This pecu- 
liarity unfits the quadruped to trot upon stones, or hard roads, until it 
has learned "to handle its feet," or to accommodate the tread to the 
new condition of the hoof. 




THE AWKWARD TREAB OP A HORSE WHEN' 
NEWLY NEUROTOMIZED. 



OPERATIONS— DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 

Many horses when standing knuckle over to such an extent as threatens 
to throw them upon their knees. Others can only put the toe of the 
hind leg to the ground. The natural use of the limb is equally injured 
in each ease : the fore legs of the horse support the body and the burden ; 
the hind legs propel the carcass and the load. Both are deformed by 



45S OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 

contraction of the perforans tendon ; and both deformities are generally 
produced by excessive labor, inducing strain, though a few cases have 
come to the author's knowledge of animals being born thus afflicted. 
When we contemplate the huge frame of the horse, it seems more than 
fitted for all man's ordinary purposes. But country carriers have vans 
proportioned only to the extent of their custotn ; their carts are enlarged 
as their trade increases ; but very seldom is the power which draws the 
load augmented in the same proportion. The horse, so agile and so 
beautiful, as long as it can move the cart is esteemed to be not over- 
weighted. It labors up hill, and then the carrier congratulates himself 
that the worst of the work is over; it may be for him, but it is not for 
his horse. All the stress in going down hill lies upon the back sinews ; 
the animal has to put forth all its strength to check the downward 
impetus of the load. It is the same with other horses in the shafts of 
other vehicles. Three or four animals — according to the usual English 
fashion — may be attached to a load ; but the weight which three strengths 
can draw upon level ground, when descending an inequality, then, never 
bears equally upon the leaders. 

Clap of the back sinews is a common accident with all horses. The 
equine delight is the pleasure of the master. So entirely is the horse 
the slave of man, that it, by instinct, puts forth its utmost strength to 
attain anything in which its owner takes enjoyment. It does so regard- 
less of its own probable sufferings. In racing, in hunting, in all kinds 
of pastime the horse will strain every nerve and even burst its strong 
vessels laboring to gratify an ungrateful proprietor. Who does not 
remember the old coaching days? The animals then appeared happy in 
their vocation. A well-appointed coach, trotting by the White Horse 
Cellar, was a sight to contemplate. However, follow the vehicle to the 
termination of the first stage. See the poor panting carcasses un- 
harnessed — the perspiration lathering their sides, their veins swelling, 
their tails quivering, their nostrils jerking, and their limbs stiffened. 
Who then could regret that railroads were invented to indulge man's 
desire for speed? See, as the coach leaves the metropolis behind it, the 
cattle deteriorate. At last, behold life with swollen legs, stiff joints, and 
diseased feet made to propel the loaded vehicle. Who, properly regard- 
ing such a spectacle, and having a heart to feel, does not rejoice that a 
method of traveling has at length been invented which renders the 
employment of the lash to overcome the agonies of breathing flesh no 
longer imperative ? 

These fast abuses induced contraction of the perforans tendon in the 
front legs. There is, however, this difference between contraction 
in the anterior and posterior extremities — one hind leg only may be 



OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



459 



affected ; but the author remembers no instance of one fore leg being 
alone involved. 

When a tendon is sprained, it is usual to apply stimulating or fiery 
mixtures to that part, winding up the treatment with blisters and the 
heated iron. Notwithstanding such measures are very seldom success- 
ful, man seems incapable of learning anything where another has to 
bear the torture, and he will often endure a great deal of agony him- 
self before an obvious idea can be awakened. 

Such slowness is, however, very lamentable in the case of the horse. 
Division of the tendons was borrowed from the human surgeon by the 
veterinary practitioner. The operation, however, till very lately, re- 
mained as it was originally adopted. Human surgery had advanced ; 
but veterinary practice stood motionless. At length, Mr. Yarnell came 
from America, and instructed veterinarians in an improved mode of 
operating, which at this date should be universally practiced. 





THE KMFE EMPLOYED BY MR. VARJfELL, 
ASSISTANT PROFESSOa AT THE ROY VL 
VETERINARY COLLEGE. 



THE POSITION OF THE LEG WHEN THE 
KNIFE IS INSERTED. 



A stout knife with a probed point, a curved blade, and a smooth, 
rounded back, is first obtained. Before the blade is inserted, the skin is 
divided, at the point selected for the operation, by the slight puncture 
of a lancet. 

The leg is then flexed ; the tendons are, by the position of the limb, 
rendered flaccid. The knife is next inserted sideways, behind the nerve 
and artery, under the tendons. This last act is not, however, in prac- 
tice, very easy or very safe. 



460 



OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



The edge of the knife is now toward the shoulder or haunch, and the 

vessels lie upon that side of the blade which is nearest to the bone. The 

operator now, by a simple motion of the hand, turns the cutting edge 

of the knife toward the posterior part of the limb. A man at the same 

moment takes hold of the leg and forces it 

straight; the perforans tendon is thus dragged 

against the knife, while the suspensory ligament 

and vessels are safe at the back of the blade. 

If the tendon be not divided without any effort 

on the part of the operator, he makes a sawing 

motion as he withdraws the knife. A slight 

sensation or a feeble sound often testifies the 

separation of the structure. 

Often, if the contraction be not chronic, the 
strength of the extensor pedis muscle, when 
released from its opponent's force, is sufficient 
to straighten the fetlock. When the disease, 
however, has existed for any time, it requires 
some violence to break down the false attach- 
ments which have been formed. For this purpose the knee of a strong 
man is placed in front of the fetlock-joint, and the horse's foot is, by 
pulling hard, drawn forward. 

The wound is then closed with a piu and twisted thread, as in neu- 
rotomy, and the animal, till junction is perfected, should be kept in the 
stable, as the shoe to be worn afterward is not favorable to progression. 
One week after the operation, a shoe, with a projecting piece at the toe 
about one inch and a half long, is to be put on the foot of the diseased 
limb. Five weeks after this, the shoe is to be replaced by one having 
the projecting point twice as long; and this last is to be worn till union 




THE TENDON DIVIDED. 





THE SHOE TO liE WORN 0\E WEEK 
AFTER DIVISION OP THE TENDON 
HAS BEEN ACCOMPLISHED. 



THE SHOE TO BE PUT ON SIX WEEKS AFTER 
DIVISION OF THE TENDON, AND TO BE WORN 
UNTIL UNION IS PERFECTED. 



is supposed to be perfected — till the expiration of three months at 
least. 

The horse, after having the tendon divided, is said to be as strong as 



OPERATIONS — DIVISION OF THE TENDONS. 



461 



ever. The author would, however, object to such au animal being put 
into the shafts with even a light load behind it, or to its being again 
used for saddle purposes. The animal, though forbidden these uses, 
lias still a large field of service open to it. 

This operation is alike effectual and humane. That the last assertion 
may not appear based upon a single opinion, the author presents the 
reader with an engraving taken from a park near Lewes. That animal 
seemed to have all four limbs contracted, or the hind limbs were flexed 
and much advanced, to take the weight off the fore members. A foal 
ran by the side of the creature thus crippled ; though it would be sup- 
posed no sane person would select such a dam to breed from. 




Now had this mare been operated upon, slight pain would have been 
inflicted. Tendon, unless in a state of inflammation, has no sensation. 
Relief would have been afforded for the remainder of the life, and 
though, from her make and shape, the animal might never have held a 
high station among her breed, still, with straight legs she must have 
been worth as much for work as with bent limbs she could be valuable 
for stock purposes. 



462 OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



LAYING OPEN THE SINUSES OF A QUITTOR. 

Give no opening medicine to any horse previous to this operation. 
Every member of the equine race is more likely to be too low from 
excess of work, than in any degree inflammatory from over-indulgence. 
Therefore, discard the general practice of preparing the horse with a 
dose of compound aloes. If the bowels are costive, get them open. 
But before employing the drastic drug, try what bran mashes and green- 
meat can effect. The entire strength will be needed to repair the injuries 
effected with the knife. 

Give tonics and high feeding where the symptoms declare the body to 
be enervated. It is at all times better to operate upon a system having 
a superabundance of vital energy than upon one in which the powers 
are at all tardy. Collapse is the greatest enemy the surgeon has to 
dread. It is true, animals do not, like men, often "shut up" or die 
while under the operator; but frequently the most skillful surgery is 
defeated by the horse, after it has been released from the hobbles, never 
thriving. There may be no disease to be detected; but the body seems 
to want the strength requisite for recovery. To make this apparent to 
the reader — two gentlemen shall each perform neurotomy. One shall 
bungle, yet his patient shall do well. The wounds shall heal by the first 
intention, and the horse in a fortnight be again delighting its owner. 
The other shall display the perfection of scientific attainment; yet the 
horse shall never thrive. The wounds shall ulcerate, and the animal 
either gnaw the foot or cast the hoof. How can such differences be 
accounted for but by believing the horse is subject to a peculiar species 
of chronic collapse ? 

Rasp the quarter of the horse's foot which has quittor, until the soft, 
light-colored horn of the laminae is exposed. Then let the hair be cut 
off around the opening on the coronet, and the foot be carefully cleansed. 
Afterward throw the horse. Release the quittored leg from the hob- 
bles, and with a steel director probe each sinus. So soon as the instru- 
nent is well in, take a sharp-pointed knife and run it carefully down the 
groove of the director. Then ascertain, with a grooved probe, whether 
the sinus decreased in diameter, or whether the whole extent of the pipe 
be laid open. If the smallest portion remains, to which the knife has 
not reached, use the groove of the probe as a director, and slit it up. 
Do this to as many sinuses as may exist. 

Next place in each sinus a small piece of tow. These pieces of tow 
should be already divided into short and thin skeins. They should be 



OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



463 



saturated with chloride of zinc dissolved in spirits of wine, one scruple 
to the ounce. Put one of these into each sinus, and let the horse up. 
In three days such of the pieces of tow as have not been removed by 
the sloughing process may be taken from the wounds, and the foot sim- 
ply dressed with chloride of zinc and water, one grain to the ounce, 
squeezed from a sponge, as in the case of open joint. 





THE QUARTER RASPED BENEATH THE OPENING OF 
A QUIITOE. 



THE SINUSES Of A QUITTOE BEING OPERATED 
UPON. 



This operation, when described, reads abhorrent ; but it is really most 
humane. It is a common thing for a horse to be three, or even six 
months under treatment, on account of an ordinary quittor. During 
the entire space, the foot — the tenderest part of the horse's body — is 
burned with violent caustics, and has had heated wires thrust down its 
sinuses. By the operation proposed, the affair is settled in a few 
minutes. The horse seldom evinces much sensibility while the knife is 
being employed ; in three days the animal is so far recovered as to 
allotv the diseased member almost to be left to nature. The horse 
should, however, on no account do any work before the hoof is in some 
measure restored. Until the outer covering of dark horn has grown 
down, a bar shoe, well eased off the diseased quarter, should be worn. 
When the hoof is reproduced, instead of false quarter or other deform- 
ities, the usual results of quittor, it is all but impossible to decide which 
has been the affected foot, and which was operated upon. 



The author has now stated at length that treatment which the horse 
for its own sake deserves, and which, for the honor of the being whom 
it serves, the animal should receive. He has, designedly, rather appealed 



464 



OPERATIONS — QUITTOR. 



to the reason of his readers than sought to enlist their feelings. The 
subject was, indeed, a wide one. Man has hitherto been too content to 
consider animals as something given absolutely to him to be treated 
according to his sovereign will or merest pleasure. He has not reflected 
that, when he was created lord of this earth, he was invested with a 
title which had its responsibilities as well as its privileges. 




ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



30 ( 465 ) 



A BEIEF SUMMARY 



OF THE FOREGOING MATTER, 



ARRANGED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER. 



This abbreviation is made for the purpose of hasty consultation, when 
the symptoms exhibited by the horse are so urgent as will not allow the 
owner to refer to the body of the book. That, however, he is earnestly 
recommended to do after the first anxiety has subsided ; because what 
follows is to be regarded only as notes of cases, and by no means to be 
viewed as a substitute for the more detailed descriptions of diseases and 
their treatment. 



ABSCESS OF THE BRAIN. 



Cause. — Some injury to the head. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; refusal to feed ; a slight oozing from a trivial 
injury upon the skull ; prostration, and the animal, while on the ground, 
continues knocking the head violently against the earth until death 
ensues. 

Treatment. — None of any service. 

ABDOMINAL INJURIES. 

Ruptured Diaphragm generally produces a soft cough ; sitting on the 
haunches or leaning on the chest may or may not be present; the coun- 
tenance is haggard. 

Ruptured Spleen answers to the tests described under " Hemorrhage 
of the Liver." 

(467) 



468 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Ruptured Stomach is characterized by excessive colic, followed by 
tympanitis. 

Introsusception possibly may be relieved by the inhalation of a full 
dose of chloroform ; but the result is always uncertain. 

Invagination is attended with the greatest possible agony. 

Strangulation is not to be distinguished, during life, from invagina- 
tion. 

Calculus causes death by impactment ; but however different the causes 
of abdominal injury may be, they each produce the greatest agony, which 
conceals the other symptoms, and makes all such injuries apparently the 
same while the life lasts. 



ACITES, OR DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN. 

Cause. — Chronic peritonitis. 

Symptoms. — Pulse hard; head pendulous ; food often spoiled; mem- 
branes pallid ; mouth dry. Pressure to abdomen elicits a groan ; turn- 
ing in the stall calls forth a grunt. Want of spirit; constant lying 
down; restlessness; thirst; loss of appetite; weakness; thinness; en- 
larged abdomen; constipation and hide-bound. Small bags depend 
from the chest and belly; the sheath and one leg sometimes enlarge; the 
mane breaks off; the tail drops out. Purgation and death. 

Treatment. — When the symptoms first appear give, night and morn- 
ing, strychnia, half a grain, worked up to one grain ; iodide of iron, half 
a drachm, worked up to one drachm and a half; extract of belladonna, 
one scruple ; extract of gentian and powdered quassia, of each a suffi- 
ciency ; apply small blisters, in rapid succession, upon the abdomen : but 
if the effusion is confirmed, a cure is hopeless. 

ACUTE DYSENTERY. 

Cause. — Some acrid substance taken into the stomach. 

Symptoms. — Abdominal pain; violent purgation; the feces become 
discolored, and water fetid; intermittent pulse; haggard countenance; 
the position characterizes the seat of anguish. Perspiration, tympanitis, 
and death. 

Treatment. — Give sulphuric ether, one ounce; laudanum, three ounces; 
liquor potassae, half an ounce ; powdered chalk, one ounce ; tincture of 
catechu, one ounce ; cold linseed tea, one pint. Repeat every fifteen 
minutes. Cleanse the quarters; plait the tail; inject cold linseed tea. 
The whole of the irritating substance must be expelled before improve- 
ment can take place. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 469 



ACUTE GASTRITIS. 



Cause. — Poison; generally given to improve the coat. 

Symptoms. — Excessive pain, resembling fury. 

Treatment. — Give, as often and as quickly as possible, the following 
drink: Sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each three ounces; carbon- 
ate of magnesia, soda, or potash, four ounces; gruel, (quite cold,) one 
quart. Should the pulse be sinking, add to the drink carbonate of am- 
monia, one drachm. If corrosive sublimate is known to be the poison, 
one dozen raw eggs should be blended with each drench. If delirium 
be present, give the medicine as directed for tetanus, with the stomach 
pump. 

ACUTE LAMINITIS. 

Cause. — Often man's brutality. Horses driven far and upon hard 
roads are exposed to the disorder Any stress long applied to the foot, 
as standing in the hold of a ship, may generate the affection. 

Symptoms. — The pace seems odd toward the end of the journey ; but 
the horse is placed in the stable with plenty of food for the night. Next 
morning the animal is found all of a heap. Flesh quivering; eyes 
glaring; nostrils distended, and breath jerking ; flanks tucked up ; back 
roached ; head erect ; mouth closed ; hind legs advanced under the 
belly ; fore legs pushed forward ; fore feet resting upon the heels, and 
the limbs moved as though the horse were dancing upon hot irons. 

Treatment. — Put on the slings in silence. To the end of the cords 
append weights. Soak the feet in warm water, in which a portion of 
alkali is dissolved. Cut out the nails from the softened horn. Before 
the shoes ai*e removed give half a drachm of belladonna and fifteen grains 
of digitalis, and repeat the dose every half hour until the symptoms 
abate. When the slings are up, open the jugular vein ; abstract one 
quart of blood, and inject one pint of luke-warm water. Clothe the 
body; place thin gruel and green-meat within reach, and leave two men 
to watch for the first three nights. 

Next morning give sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each two ounces, 
in a pint of water. Should the pastern arteries throb, open the veins 
and place the feet in warm water. While the affection lasts, pursue these 
measures ; and it is a bad symptom, though not a certain one, if no 
change for the better takes place in five days. 



410 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



ALBUMINOUS URINE. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — These consist of the positions assumed by the horse. 
The legs are either stretched out or the hind feet are brought under 
the body. Straddling gait, and much difficulty in turning within the 
stall. Some urine being caught, it is thick, and answers to certain 
chemical tests. 

Treatment. — Bleed moderately; give a laxative, and apply mustard 
to the loins. As after-measures, perfect rest, attention to diet, and 
repeated doses of opium. 

APHTHA. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — Small swelling on the lips ; larger swellings upon the 
tongue. As the disease progresses, a clear liquid appears in each 
swelling. The bladders burst, crusts form, and the disease disappears. 

Treatment. — Soft food, and the following wash for the mouth : 
Take borax, five ounces; honey or treacle, two pints; water, one gallon. 
Mix. 

BLOOD SPAVIN. 

A disease never encountered at the present time. 

BOG SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Brutality of some kind. 

Symptom. — A puify swelling at the front of and ai the upper part of 
the hock. 

Treatment. — Pressure, maintained by means of an India-rubber 
bandage. 

BOTS. 

Cause. — Turning out to grass. 

Treatment. — No remedy. Wait till the following year, and the para- 
sites will be ejected naturally. 

BREAKING DOWN. 

Cause. — Violent exertion ; generally when racing. 

Symptoms. — The horse, when going, suddenly loses power to put one 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 471 

leg to the ground. The foot is turned upward ; pain excessive ; breath- 
ing quickened ; pulse accelerated ; appetite lost. In time these symp- 
toms abate, but the leg is disabled for life. 

Treatment. — Bleed and purge, or not, as the symptoms are severe. 
Place a linen bandage round the injury, and see that this is kept con- 
stantly cold and wet ; put on a high-heeled shoe, and leave the issue to 
nature. The animal is afterward serviceable only to breed from. 

BROKEN KNEES. 

Causes. — Terrifying a horse, or rendering alive only to fear. Pulling 
in the chin to the breast, or driving with a tight bearing-rein. 

Symptoms. — The horse falls ; the knee may only be slightly broken, 
but deeply contused. A slough must then take place, and open joint 
may result. Or the animal may fall, and, when down, be driven forward 
by the impetus of its motion. The knee is cut by the fall, and the skin 
of the knee may be forced back by the onward impulse. This skin will 
become dirty ; but the removed integument will fly back on the animal's 
rising, thus forming a kind of bag containing and concealing foreign 
matter. 

Treatment. — Procure a pail of milk-warm water and a large sponge. 
Dip the sponge in the pail, and squeeze out the water above the knee. 
Continue to do this, but do not dab or sop the wound itself. The water 
flowing over the knee will wash away every impurity. Then with a probe 
gently explore the bag. If small, make a puncture through the bottom 
of the bag ; if large, insert a seton, and move it night and morning until 
good pus is secreted : then withdraw the seton. " Rack up" the horse's 
head, and get some cold water, to every quart of which add two ounces 
of tincture of arnica. Pour a little of this into a saucei*, and then dip 
a sponge into the liquid. Squeeze the sponge dry above the joint. Do 
this every half hour for three and a half days, both by day and night. 
If at the end of that time all is going on well, the head may be released ; 
but should the knee enlarge and become sensitive, while the animal 
refuses to put the foot to the ground, withdraw the seton ; give no hay, 
but all the oats and beans that can be eaten, with two pots of stout each 
day. Place the quadruped in slings ; apply the arnica lotion until a 
slough takes place ; then resort to the chloride of zinc lotion, one scru- 
ple to the pint, and continue to use this as has been directed. 



472 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



BROKEN WIND. 



Causes. — Old age, prolonged work, and bad food. 

Symptoms. — Short, dry, hacking cough, caused by irritability of the 
larynx ; ravenous appetite ; insatiable thirst ; abundant flatus. Dung 
half digested ; belly pendulous ; coat ragged ; aspect dejected. Res- 
piration is performed by a triple effort ; inspiration is spasmodic and 
single ; expiration is labored and double. The ribs first essay to expel 
the air from the lungs; these failing, the diaphragm and abdominal mus- 
cles take up the action. Broken wind can be set or concealed for a time 
by forcing the animal to swallow quantities of grease, tar, or shot. A 
drink of water, however, will always reproduce the symptoms. 

Treatment. — No cure. Relief alone is possible. Never give water 
before work. Four half pails of water to be allowed in twenty-four 
hours. In each draught mingle half an ounce of phosphoric acid or half 
a drachm of sulphuric acid. Remove the bed in the day; muzzle at 
night; put a lump of rock-salt and of chalk in the manger. Never push 
hard or take upon a very long journey. 

BRONCHITIS. 

Causes. — Riding far and fast; then leaving exposed, especially to the 
night air ; neglect and constitutional liability. 

Symptoms. — Appetite often not affected ; sometimes it is increased. 
A short cough, in the first instance; breathing only excited; legs warm; 
mouth moist ; and nasal membrane merely deeper color during the early 
stage. When confirmed, the appetite is lost ; the horse is averse to 
move ; the cough is sore and suppressed ; the breathing is audible ; the 
membranes are scarlet ; the mouth is hot and dry ; the legs are cold ; 
the body is of uneven temperatures. 

Treatment. — Do not deplete. Place in a large, loose box ; fill the 
place with steam ; apply scalded hay to the throat ; fix flannels wet with 
cold water to the back and side by means of a Mackintosh jacket. When 
the flannel becomes warm, change it immediately. Do this for two 
hours. After that space the flannel may remain on, but must not become 
dry. Prepare half a pound of melted Burgundy pitch, and stir into it 
two ounces of powdered camphor, with half a drachm of powdered cap- 
sicums. Apply the mixture to the throat. To restore tone to the pulse, 
give, every half hour, sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one ounce ; 
water, one pint. If no effect be produced by three of these drinks, sub- 
stitute infusion of aconite, half an ounce ; extract of belladonna, half a 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 473 

drachm, nibbed down in water, a quarter of a pint. When the pulse has 
recovered, resume the former physic, only adding half a drachm of bella- 
donna to each dose. Support with gruel. Introduce food gradually ; 
" chill " the water ; be careful of hay, and mind, when given, it is thor- 
oughly damped. 

BRONCHOCELE. 

Symptom — An enlargement on the side of the throat. 

Treatment. — Give the following, night and morning: Iodide of potas- 
sium, half a drachm ; liquor potasste, one drachm ; distilled water, half a 
pint. Also, rub into the swelling the accompanying ointment : Iodide 
of lead, one drachm ; simple cerate, one ounce. 

BRUISE OF THE SOLE. 

Cause. — Treading on a stone or some projecting body. 

Symptom. — Effusion of blood into the horny sole. 

Treatment. — Cut away the stained horn, and shoe with leather. 

CALCULL 

Causes. — Unknown. 

Symptoms of Benal Calculus. — Urine purulent, thick, opaque, 
gritty, or bloody; back roached. Pressure on the loins occasions 
shrinking ; the arm in the rectum and the hand carried upwai'd provoke 
alarm. 

Treatment. — Two drachms of hydrochloric acid in every pail of 
water ; but the result is dubious. 

Symptoms of Cystic Calculus. — Same states of urine as in renal cal- 
culus. The water, when flowing forth, is suddenly stopped ; every emis- 
sion is followed by straining ; the back is hollowed ; the point of the 
penis is sometimes exposed ;. and, when going down hill, the animal often 
pulls up short. 

Treatment of Cystic Calculus. — Examine per rectum. An operation 
for the horse, or Mr. Simmonds's instrument for the mare, is imperative. 
When the stone is small, hydrochloric acid may be tried. 

Symptoms of Urethral Calculus — Suppression of urine ; great suf- 
fering. If the urethral calculus is impacted in the exposed portion of 
the urethra, the passage is distended behind the stoppage. 

Treatment of Urethral Calculus. — Cut down upon and remove the 
substance. 



474 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



CANKER. 



Cause. — Old horses, when " turned out" for life as pensioners ; aged 
and neglected animals will also exhibit the disease. 

Symptoms. — Not much lameness. The disease commences at the cleft 
of the frog ; a liquid issues from the part, more abundant and more 
abominable than in thrush; it often exudes from the commissures joining 
the sole to the frog. The horn firstly bulges out ; then it flakes off, ex- 
posing a spongy and soft substance, which is fungoid horn. The fungoid 
horn is most abundant about the margin of the sole, and upon its surface 
it flakes off. This horn has no sensation. The disease is difficult to 
eradicate when one fore foot is involved. When all four feet are impli- 
cated, a cure is all but hopeless, and the treatment is certain to be slow 
and vexatious. 

Treatment. — See that the stable is large, clean, and comfortable; 
note that the food is of the best; allow liberal support; pare off the 
superficial fungoid horn, and so much of the deep seated as can be 
detached. Apply to the diseased parts some of the following : Chlo- 
ride of zinc, half an ounce ; flour, four ounces. Put on the foot without 
water. To the sound hoof apply chloride of zinc, four grains; flour, 
one ounce. Cover the sound parts before the cankered horn is dressed ; 
tack on the shoe ; pad well and firmly. When places appear to be in 
confirmed health, the following may be used: Chloride of zinc, two 
grains ; flour, one ounce. At first, dress every second day ; after a time, 
every third day, and give exercise as soon as possible. 

CAPPED ELBOW. 

Cause. — Injury to the point of the elbow. 

Symptom. — It is often of magnitude, and is liable to ulcerate and 
become sinuous. 

Treatment. — The same as capped hock. 

CAPPED HOCK. 

Cause. — Any injury to the point of the calcis. 

Symptom. — A round swelling on the point of the hock, which, should 
the cause be repeated, often becomes of great size. 

Treatment. — If small, set several men to hand-rub the tumor con- 
stantly for a few days. Should the capped hock be of magnitude, dis- 
sect out the enlargement, without puncturing it. Remove none of the 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 475 

pendulous skin. Treat the wound with the lotion of chloride of zinc — 
one grain to the ounce of water — and it will heal after some weeks. 



CAPPED KNEE. 

Cause. — The same as the previous affection. 

Symptom. — A soft tumor in front of the knee. 

Treatment. — If let alone, it would burst and leave a permanent blem- 
ish. Draw the skin to one side, and with a lancet pierce the lower sur- 
face of the tumor. Treat the wound as an open joint. 

CATARACT. 

Cause. — Looking at white walls, or receiving external injuries. Spe- 
cific ophthalmia generates a permanent cataract. 

Symptoms. — When partial, shying; if total, white pupil and blind- 
ness. 

Treatment. — Color the inside of the stable green, as cataract, when 
not total, is sometimes absorbed. 

CHOKING. 

Causes. — Something impacted in the gullet, either high up or low 
down. 

Symptoms— High Choke. — Raised head; saliva; discharge from the 
nostrils; inflamed eyes; haggard countenance; audible breathing; the 
muscles of neck tetanic ; the flanks heave ; the fore feet paw and stamp ; 
the hind legs crouch and dance ; perspiration ; agony excessive. Loiv 
Choke. — The animal ceases to feed; water returns by the nostrils; 
countenance expresses anguish ; saliva and nasal discharge ; labored by 
seldom, noisy breathing; roached back; tucked-up flanks, while the 
horse stands as though it were desirous of elevating the quarters. 

Treatment. — Make haste when high choke is pi^esent. Perform tra- 
cheotomy to relieve the breathing ; insert the balling-iron, or, with a hook 
extemporized out of any wire, endeavor to remove the substance from 
the throat. If the choking body is too firmly lodged to be thus re- 
moved, sulphuric ether must be inhaled to relax the spasm. The ether 
not succeeding, an Qgg is probably impacted. Destroy its integrity with 
a darning-needle carefully inserted through the skin; then break the 
shell by outward pressure. Low choke is seldom fatal before the expi- 
ration of three days. Give a quarter of a pint of oil every hour; in 
the intermediate half hours give sulphuric ether, two ounces; laudanum, 



4^6 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

two ounces; water, half a pint; and use the probang after every dose of 
the last medicine. Should these be returned, cause chloroform to be 
inhaled; then insert the probang, and, by steady pressure, drive the 
substance forward. 

Subsequent to the removal of impactment feed with caution. 

CHRONIC DYSENTERY. 

Cause. — Not well understood; generally attacks old horses belonging 
to penurious masters. 

Symptoms. — Purging without excitement, always upon drinking cold 
water; violent straining ; belly enlarges ; flesh wastes ; bones protrude; 
skin hide-bound ; membranes pallid; weakness; perspiration; standing 
in one place for hours. At last the eyes assume a sleepy, pathetic ex- 
pression; the head is slowly turned toward the flanks; remains fixed 
for some minutes; the horse only moves when the bowels are about to 
act ; colic ; death. 

Treatment. — Give, thrice daily, crude opium, half an ounce; liquor 
potassse, one ounce; chalk, one ounce; tincture of all-spice, one ounce; 
alum, half an ounce ; ale, one quart. Should the horse belong to a gen- 
erous master, give one of the following drinks thrice daily, upon the 
symptoms being confirmed: Sulphuric ether, one ounce; laudanum, 
three ounces; liquor potassae, half an ounce; powdered chalk, one 
ounce ; tincture of catechu, one ounce ; cold linseed tea, one pint. Or, 
chloroform, half an ounce; extract of belladonna, half a drachm; car- 
bonate of ammonia, one drachm; powdered camphor, half a drachm; 
tincture of oak-bark, one ounce; cold linseed tea, one pint. Feed 
lightly ; dress frequently ; give a good bed and a roomy lodging. 

CHRONIC GASTRITIS. 

Symptoms. Irregularity of bowels and appetite; pallid membranes; 

mouth cold ; a dry cough ; tainted breath ; sunken eye ; catching res- 
piration ; pendulous belly; ragged coat, and emaciation. Sweating on 
the slightest exertion ; eating wood-work or bricks and mortar. 

Treatment. Do not purge; administer bitters, sedatives, and alka- 
lies. Give powdered nux vomica, one scruple; carbonate of potash, 
one drachm; extract of belladonna, half a drachm ; extract of gentian 
and powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency. Or give strychnia, half a 
grain; bicarbonate of ammonia, one drachm; extract of belladonna, 
half a drachm ; sulphate of zinc, half a drachm ; extract of gentian and 
powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency. Give one ball night and morn- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 477 

ing; when these balls seem to have lost their power, give half an ounce 
each of liquor arsenicalis and tincture of ipecacuanha, with one ounce 
of rauriated tincture of iron and laudanum, in a pint of water ; damp 
the food ; sprinkle magnesia on it. As the strength improves, give sul- 
phuric ether, one ounce ; water, one pint, daily. Ultimately change that 
for a quart of ale or stout daily. 

CHRONIC HEPATITIS. 

Cause. — Too good food and too little work. 

Symptoms. — Cold mouth ; pallid membranes ; white of eyes ghastly, 
displaying a yellow tinge ; looks toward the right side ; the right side 
may be tender for a long time, with generally repeated attacks of this 
nature, although the horse may perish with the first fit. 

Treatment. — Hold up the head, and if the horse staggers, this proves 
hemorrhage from the liver. Give sufficient of nutritious food, but only 
enough of it, plenty of labor, and the following physic : Iodide of 
potassium, two ounces; liquor potassse, one quart; dose, night and 
morning, two tablespooufuls in a pint of water. 

CLAP OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Cause. — Extra exertion. 

Symptoms. — The maimed limb is flexed ; the toe rests upon the ground. 
In a short space a tumor appears ; it is small, hot, soft, and tender, but 
soon grows hard. Great pain, but attended with few constitutional 
symptoms. 

Treatment. — Administer physic, and bleed gently ; then give a few 
doses of febrifuge medicine, but go no further than to reduce the pulse 
to fifty-five degrees. Put a linen bandage on the leg ; keep this con- 
stantly wet until the primary symptoms abate. Cut grass for food while 
fever exists ; continue the cold water till recovery is confirmed. The 
horse will not be fit to work for many months. 

COLD. 

If mild, a little green-meat, a few mashes, an extra rug, and a slight 
rest generally accomplish a cure. 

Symptoms of severe cold are dullness ; a rough coat ; the body of dif- 
ferent temperatures ; the nasal membrane deep scarlet, or of a leaden 
color ; the appetite is lost ; simple ophthalmia ; tears ; the sinuses are 
clogged, and a discharge from the nose appears. 



418 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Treatment. — Give no active medicine. Apply the steaming nose-bag 
six times daily; allow cut grass and mashes for food, with gruel for 
drink. If weak, present three feeds of crushed and scalded oats and 
beans daily, with a pot of stout morning and evening. Good nursing, 
with pure aii", warmth, and not even exercise, till the disease abates, are 
of more importance than " doctor's stuff" in a case of severe cold. Cold, 
however, often ushers in other and more dangerous diseases. 

CONGESTION IN THE FIELD. 

Cause. — Riding a horse after the hounds when out of condition. 

Symptoms. — The horse, from exhaustion, reels and falls. The body 
is clammy cold ; the breathing is labored ; every vein is turgid. 

Treatment. — Bleed, if possible ; cover the body ; lead gently to the 
nearest stable ; keep hot rugs upon the animal ; bandage the legs and 
hood the neck ; warm the place, either by a fire or tubs full of hot water. 
Give, without noise, every half hour, one ounce of sulphuric ether, half 
an ounce of laudanum, half a pint of cold water. Should no chemist be 
at hand, beat up two ounces of turpentine with the yolk of an Qgg ; mix 
it with half a pint of water, and repeat the dose at the times stated. 
Allow an ample bed, and place a pail of gruel within easy reach of the 
horse. Do not leave the animal for thirty hours, as in that time its fate 
will be decided. 

CONGESTION IN THE STABLE. 

Cause. — A debilitated, fat horse, unused to work, being driven fast 
with a heavy load behind it. 

Symptoms. — Hanging head; food not glanced at; blowing; artery 
gorged and round ; pulse feeble ; cold and partial perspirations ; feet 
cold ; eye fixed ; hearing lost ; and the attitude motionless. 

Treatment. — Give immediately two ounces each of sulphuric ether and 
of laudanum in a pint of cold water. Give the drink with every caution. 
In ten minutes repeat the medicine, if necessary. Wait twenty minutes, 
and give another drink, if requisite ; more are seldom needed. Take 
away all solid food, and allow gruel for the remainder of the day. 

CORNS. 

Cause. — In a flat foot, the heels of the coffin-bone squeeze the sensi- 
tive sole by pressing it against the shoe. In a contracted foot, the sen- 
sitive sole is squeezed between the wings of the coffin-bone and the thick, 
horny sole. A bruise results ; blood is effused ; and the stain of this left 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 479 

upon the horny sole — generally upon the inner side and anterior to the 
bars — constitutes a horse's corn, which is mostly found on the fore feet. 

Symptom. — If the stain is dark, and is to be removed with the knife, 
this indicates a corn has been, but no longer exists. The smallest stain 
of bright scarlet testifies to the existence of a new and present corn. 
Corns are of four kinds — the old, the new, the sappy, and the suppura- 
tive. The old and new are produced by the blood, and are judged by 
the scarlet or dark-colored stain. The old is generally near the surface, 
the new is commonly deep seated. The sappy is when the bruise is only 
heavy enough to effuse serum. The new corn alone produces lameness. 
The suppurating corn may start up from either of the others receiving 
additional injury. It causes intense pain and produces acute lameness. 

Treatment. — Cut out the stain. If a suppurating corn, place the foot 
in a poultice, after having opened the abscess. Then, the horn being 
softened, cut away all the sole which has been released by the pus from 
its attachment to the secreting surface. Tack on an old shoe, and dress 
with the solution of the chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce. After- 
ward shoe with leather, and employ stopping to render the horn plastic. 

COUGH. 

Causes. — Foul stables ; hot stables ; coarse, dusty provender ; rank 
bedding ; irregular work ; while the affection may attend many diseases. 

Treatment. — Crush the oats ; damp the hay ; give gruel or linseed 
tea for drink. Clothe warmly, and give, thrice daily, half a pint of the 
following in a tumbler of water : Extract of belladonna, one drachm, 
rubbed down in a pint of cold water ; tincture of squills, ten ounces ; 
tincture of ipecacuanha, eight ounces. No change ensuing, next try — 
Barbadoes or common tar, half an ounce ; calomel, five grains ; linseed 
meal, a sufficiency : make into a ball, and give one night and morning. 
This being attended with no improvement, employ — Powdered aloes, 
one drachm ; balsam of copaiba, three drachms ; cantharides, three 
grains ; common mass, a sufficiency. Mix, and give every morning, 

A daily bundle of cut grass is good in the spring of the year. A lump 
of rock-salt has been beneficiah If the animal eats the litter, muzzle 
it. Roots are good. Moisten the hay ; and, above all things, attend 
to the ventilation of the stable. 

CRACKED HEELS. 

Cause. — Cutting the hair from the heels, and turning into a straw-yard 
during winter. 



480 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Symptoms. — Thickened skin ; cracks ; and sometimes ulceration, 
2>ea/menf. -- Wash ; dry thoroughly; apply the following wash: 
Animal glycerin, half a pint ; chloride of ziuc, two drachms ; strong 
solution of oak-bark, one pint. Mix. If ulceration has commenced, 
rest the horse. Give a few bran mashes or a little cut grass to open the 
bowels. Use the next wash : Animal glycerin, or phosphoric acid, two 
ounces ; permanganate of potash, or creosote, half an ounce ; water, 
three ounces : apply six times daily. Give a drink each day composed 
of liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of muriate of iron, one 
ounce ; water, one pint. 

CRIB-BITING. 

Cause. — Sameness of food and unhealthy stables, or indigestion. 

Symptoms. — Placing the upper incisors against some support, and, 
with some effort, emitting a small portion of gas. 

Treatment. — Place a lump of rock-salt in the manger ; if that is not 
successful, add a lump of chalk. Then damp the food, and sprinkle 
magnesia upon it, and mingle a handful of ground oak-bark with each 
feed of corn. Purify the ventilation of the stable before these remedies 
are applied. 

CURB. 

Causes. — Galloping on uneven ground ; wrenching the limb ; prancing 
and leaping. 

Symptom. — A bulging out at the posterior of the hock, accompanied 
by heat and pain, often by lameness. 

Treatment. — Rest the animal. Put on an India-rubber bandage, (see 
page 307,) and under it a folded cloth. Keep the cloth wet and cool 
with cold water. When all inflammation has disappeared, blister the hock. 



CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 

Causes. — Kicks and blows under the flank. Abuse of medicine, and 
bad food, with the provocatives generally of nephritis. 

Symptoms. — Those common to pain and inflammation. Urine, how- 
ever, aff'ords the principal indication. At first, it is at intervals jerked 
forth in small quantities. Ultimately it flows forth constantly drop by 
drop. A certain but a dangerous test is to insert the arm up the rec- 
tum, and to feel the small and compressed bladder. A safer test is to 
press the flank, which, should cystitis be present, calls forth resistance. 

Treatment. — Give scruple doses of aconite, should the pulse be ex- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 481 

cited ; the same of belladonna, should pain be excessive ; and calomel 
with opium, to arrest the disease. Place under the belly, by means of a 
rug, a cloth soaked with strong liquor ammonia diluted with six times 
its bulk of water. Or apply a rug dipped into hot water or loaded with 
cold water ; change when either becomes warm, 

DIABETES INSIPIDUS, OR PROFUSE STALING. 

Causes. — Diuretic drugs or bad food. 

Symptoms. — Weakness ; loss of flesh ; loss of condition. 

Treatment. — Do not take from the stable ; keep a pail of linseed tea 
in the manger ; give no grass or hay ; groom well. Order a ball com- 
posed of iodide of iron, one drachm ; honey and linseed meal, a suf- 
ficiency. Or a drink consisting of phosphoric acid, one ounce ; water, 
one pint. Give the ball daily; the drink, at night and at morning. 

ENTERITIS. 

Causes. — Greatly conjectural. Prolonged colic may end in it. Con- 
stipation may induce it. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; heaviness ; picks the food; shivers repeatedly; 
rolling; plunging; kicking, but more gently than in spasmodic colic; 
quickened breathing ; hot, dry mouth ; wiry pulse. Pressure to the 
abdomen gives pain. Remove your coat; insert the arm up the anus; 
if the intestines are very hot, all is confirmed. 

Treatment. — Extract one quart of blood from the jugular, and inject 
into the vein one pint of water at a blood heat. Give aconite in powder, 
half a drachm ; sulphuric ether, three ounces ; laudanum, three ounces ; 
extract of belladonna, one drachm, (rubbed down in cold water, one pint 
and a half.) As the pulse changes, withdraw the aconite ; as the pain 
subsides, discontinue the belladonna. The other ingredients may be 
diminished as the horse appears to be more comfortable. Should the 
pain linger after the administration of the eighth drink, apply an am- 
moniacal blister. Sprinkle on the tongue, if any symptoms declare the 
disease vanquished but not fled, every second hour, calomel, half a 
drachm; opium, one drachm. Feed very carefully upon recovery, avoid- 
ing all things purgative or harsh to the bowels. 

EXCORIATED ANGLES OF THE MOUTH. 

Cause — Abuse of the reins. 

Treatment. — Apply the following lotion to the part : Chloride of zinc, 
two scruples ; essence of anise seed, two drachms ; water, two pints. 

31 



482 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



FALSE QUARTER. 

Cause. — Injury to the coronet, producing an absence of the secreting 
coronet of the crust from the hoof. 

Symptoms. — No lameness, but weakness of the foot. The soft horn 
of the laminae, being exposed, is apt to crack. Bleeding ensues. Some- 
times granulations sprout when the pain and the lameness are most 
acute. 

Treatment. — In cases of crack and granulations, treat as is advised 
for sandcrack. Put on a bar shoe, with a clip on each side of the false 
quarter. Pare down the edges of the crack, and ease off the point of 
bearing on the false quarter. A piece of gutta-percha, fastened over the 
false quarter, has done good. 

FARCY. 

Causes. — Excessive labor, poor food, and bad lodging operating upon 
old age. 

Symptoms. — It is at first inflammation of the superficial absorbents. 
Lumps appear on various parts. If these lumps are opened, healthy 
matter is released ; but the place soon becomes a foul ulcer, from which 
bunches of fungoid granulations sprout. From the lumps may be traced 
little cords leading to other swellings. The appetite fails, or else it is 
voracious. Matter may be squeezed through the skin. Thirst is tor- 
turing. At length glanders breaks forth, and the animal dies. There 
is a smaller kind of farcy called button-farcy ; the smaller sort is the 
more virulent of the two. 

Cure. — There is no known cure for the disease. 

FISTULOUS PAROTID DUCT. 

Causes. — Hay-seeds or other substances getting into the mouth of the 
duct during mastication. Stones being formed within the canal. The 
stable-fork in the hand of an intemperate groom. 

Symptoms — The duct greatly enlarges behind the obstacle, which, 
becoming swollen, prevents the secretion from entering the mouth. 
Great agony is occasioned by every mouthful masticated. The duct 
bursts, and a fistulous opening is established, through which the saliva 
jerks at each motion of the jaw. From the absence of a secretion im- 
portant to digestion, the flesh wastes, and the animal soon assumes a 
miserable appearance. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 483 

Treatment. — Make an adhesive fluid with gum mastic and spirits of 
wine, or with India-rubber and sulphuric ether. When the horse is not 
feeding, pare the hardened edges from the wound ; cover the orifice with 
a piece of strained India-rubber ; over this put a layer of cotton ; fasten 
one end to the horse's cheek by means of the adhesive fluid ; that having 
dried, fasten the other end tightly down. Place other layers of cotton 
over this, allowing each layer to cross the other, and fastening all to the 
cheek. Fasten the head to the pillar-reins ; allow the horse to remain 
till the cotton falls ofi", and give only gruel for food. Put tan under 
the feet ; and should the first trial not succeed, repeat it. 

FISTULOUS WITHERS. 

Cause. — External injury, generally by the lady's saddle, which bruises 
one of the bursae placed above the withers. 

Symptoms. — When first done, a small, round swelling appears on the 
off side. If this is neglected, the place enlarges, and numerous holes 
burst out, which are the mouths of so many fistulous pipes. 

Treatment. — In the early stage, go to the horse's side, impale the 
tumor and divide it. Touch the interior with lunar caustic ; keep the 
wound moist with the chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of 
water, and cover it with a cloth dipped in a solution of tar. If the 
sinuses are established, make one cut to embrace as many as possible. 
Clean out the corruption. Scrape or cut off any black or white bone 
which may be exposed. Cover with a cloth, and keep wet with the solu- 
tion of chloride of zinc. Should there exist a long sinus leading from 
the withers to the elbow, insert a seton by means of the guarded seton 
needle. This seton should be withdrawn so soon as a stream of creamy 
pus is emitted. 

FUNGOID TUMORS IN THE EYE. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — Blindness ; a yellow, metallic appearance to be seen in 
the eye. 

Treatment — None of any service. 

GLANDERS. 

Cause. — Bad lodging, stimulating food, and excessive work operating 
upon young life. 

Symptoms. — Staring coat; lungs or air-passages always affected; 



484 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

flesh fades ; glands swell ; spirit low ; appetite bad. A lymphatic 
glaud adheres to the inside of the jaw ; the membrane inside the nose 
ulcerates ; a slight discharge from one nostril. This becomes thicker, 
and adheres to the margin of the nostril, exhibiting white threads and 
bits of mucus ; then it changes to a full stream of foul pus ; next the 
nasal membrane grows dull and dropsical ; the. margins of the nostrils 
enlarge; the horse breathes with difficulty; the discharge turns discol- 
ored and abhorrent ; farcy breaks forth, and the animal dies of suffo- 
c-ition. 

Treatment. — There is no known cure. 

GREASE. 

Causes. — Age; debility; excessive labor; neglect; filth. Cutting the 
hair off the heels ; turning out to grass in the cold months. 

Symptoms. — Scurfiness and itchiness of the legs. Rubbing the leg 
with the hoof of the opposite limb ; hairs stand on end ; moisture ex- 
udes, and hangs upon the hairs in drops. Smells abhorrently; lameness; 
cracks on the skin; swelling; ulceration; thin discharge; odor worse. 
Lameness increases ; leg enlarges ; granulations sprout in ragged bunches ; 
their points harden and become like horn ; pain excessive ; horn of hoof 
grows long. 

Treatment. — Cut off all remaining hair. If hot and scurfy, cleanse 
with mild soap and hot, soft water; saturate a cloth with the following 
lotion: Animal glycerin, half a pint; chloride of zinc, half an ounce; 
water, six quarts. Lay it upon the leg. When this cloth becomes 
warm, remove it, and apply another, also wet with the lotion; thus con- 
tinue applying cool cloths to the limb till the heat abates ; afterward 
moisten the leg thrice daily. When cracks and ulceration are present, 
adopt the wet cloths ; but subsequently use one of the following to the 
sores: Permanganate of potash or phosphoric acid, one pint; water, six 
quarts. Or, chloride of zinc, one ounce; water, one gallon: employ 
thrice daily. If the granulations have sprouted, remove them with a 
knife, in three operations, {full directions are given in the book ;) like- 
wise always place in a loose box. Feed liberally; allow old beans; 
give a handful of ground oak-bark with each feed of oats. Night and 
morning exhibit liquor arsenicalis, one ounce; tincture of muriate of 
iron, one ounce and a half; porter or stout, one quart: one pint for the 
dose. Chopped roots; speared wheat; hay tea; cut grass, and exer- 
eise are all good for grease. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 485 



GUTTA SERENA. 

Cause. — Over-exertion. 

Symptoms. — Fixed dilatation of the pupil; a greenish hue of the 
eye; total blindness. Active ears; restless nostrils; head erect; high 
stepping ; occasionally a rough coat in summer and a smooth coat in 
winter. 

Treatment. — No remedy is possible. 

HEART DISEASE. 

Symptoms. — Auscultation. The beat of the heart to be seen ex- 
ternally ; haggard countenance ; pulse feeble ; heart throbs ; the beat 
of the carotid artery is to be felt; the regurgitation in the jugular is to 
be seen. The appetite is sometimes ravenous — often fastidious; the 
breathing is not accelerated excepting during pain ; lameness of one 
leg; dropsical swellings; stopping short when on a journey; averse to 
turn in the stall ; noises ; yawns ; sighs. Death always unexpected. 
No treatment is of any use. 

HEMATURIA, OR BLOODY URINE. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Sym.ptoms. — Discoloration of the fluid. When the bleeding is 
copious, breathing is oppressed ; the pupils of the eyes are dilated. 
Pulse is lost ; head is pendulous ; membranes are pale and cold. Lift- 
ing up the head produces staggering. Back roached; flanks tucked 
up ; legs wide apart. 

Treatment — Be gentle. Act upon the report given. Give acetate 
of lead, two drachms, in cold water, one pint ; or, as a ball, if one can 
be delivered. In a quarter of an hour repeat the dose, adding laudanum, 
one ounce, or powdered opium, two drachms. Repeat the physic till 
one ounce of acetate of lead has been given. Leave the horse undis- 
turbed for two hours, if the symptoms justify delay. If not, dash pail- 
fuls of cold water upon the loins from a height. Give copious injec- 
tions of cold water. Pour half a pint of boiling water upon four 
drachms of ergot of rye. When cold, add laudanum, one ounce, and 
dilute acetic acid, four ounces. Give two of these drinks, and two cukl 
enemas, of twenty minutes' duration. Suspend all treatment for eight 
hours, when the measures may be repeated. (For after proceedings, see 
the article which is pr-esented in the body of the book. ) 



486 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



HIDE-BOUND. 

Cause. — Neglect, or turning into a straw-yard for the winter. 

Treatment. — Liberal food, clean lodging, soft bed, healthy exercise, 
and good grooming. Administer, daily, two drinks, composed of: 
Liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of muriate of iron, one 
ounce ; water, one pint. Mix, and give as one dose. 

HIGH-BLOWING AND WHEEZING. 
Habits which admit of no remedies. 

HYDROPHOBIA. 

Cause. — Bite from a rabid dog or cat. 

Symptoms. — The horse is constantly licking the bitten place. A 
morbid change takes place in the appetite. Eager thirst, but inability 
to drink, or spasm at the sound or sight of water is exhibited. Nervous 
excitability ; voice and expression of countenance altered. More rarely 
the horse — when taken from the stable — appears well. While at work, 
it stops and threatens to fall. Shivers violently, and is scarcely brought 
home when the savage stage commences. The latter development con- 
sists in the utmost ferocity, blended with a most mischievous cunning, 
or a malicious pleasure in destruction. 

Treatment. — No remedy known. Confine in a strong place and 
shoot immediately. 

HYDROTHORAX. 

Cause. — Pleurisy or inflammation of the membrane lining the chest. 

Symptoms. — The horse is left very ill. The next morning the animal 
is looking better ; the pain has abated ; the eye is more cheerful ; but 
the flanks heave. A man is procured; he is told to strike the chest 
when the person listening on the other side says "now." The word is 
spoken, and a metallic ring follows. The pulse is lost at the jaw ; the 
heart seems to throb through water. The horse has hydrothorax I 

Treatment. — The first thing is to draw off the fluid. A spot between 
the eighth and ninth ribs is chosen, and the skin is pulled back ; a small 
slit through the skin is made; into that opening an armed trocar is 
driven. When there is no resistance felt, the thorax has been entered; 
the stilet is withdrawn and the water flows forth. Use a fine trocar; 
take all the fluid you can obtain. Should the horse appear faint, with- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 487 

draw the canula, and in two hours again puncture the chest. Afterward 
the food must be prepared, and a ball administered night and morning, 
consisting of iodide of iron, one drachm ; strychnia, half a grain ; sul- 
phate of zinc, half a drachm ; extract of gentian and powdered quassia, 
a sufficiency. 

IMPEDIMENT IN THE LACHRYMAL DUCT. 

Cause. — A hay-seed or other substance getting into and becoming 
swollen within the duct. 

Symptom. — Swollen lid and copious tears. 

Treatment. — Inject, forcibly, a stream of water up the duct. 

INFLUENZA. ' 

Cause. — Unknown ; but suspected to be generated by close stables. 
It is also episotic. 

Symptoms. — Weakness and stupidity ; local swellings ; heat and pain 
in the limbs. Loss of appetite; rapid wasting; every part of the body 
is diseased. Youth most exposed, but no age exempt. Spring-time 
the general season, but an attack may ensue at any period of the year. 
The following symptoms are somewhat uncertain: Pendulous head; 
short breath ; inflamed membranes ; swollen lips ; dry mouth ; enlarged 
eyelids; copious tears ; sore throat; tucked-up flanks; compressed tail; 
filled legs ; big joints ; lameness and hot feet. Auscultation may detect 
a grating sound at the chest, or a noise like brickbats falling down stairs, 
within the windpipe. When the last is audible, there is always a copious 
discharge. Sometimes one foot is painful; purgation has been seen; 
but constipation is generally present, and the horse usually stands 
throughout the disease. Always suspect influenza when it is in the 
neighborhood, and the membranes are yellow or inflamed. 

Treatment. — Move to a well-littered, warm, loose box. Suspend a 
pail of gruel from the wall ; change the gruel thrice daily ; sprinkle on 
the tongue, night and morning, calomel, one scruple ; wash this down 
with sulphuric ether, one ounce ; laudanum, one ounce ; water, half a 
pint. If weakness increases, double the quantity of ether and of 
laudanum. When the pulse loses all wiry feeling, and the discharge 
becomes copious, give from the hand some bread, on which there is a 
little salt; when the cough appears, give a pot of stout daily. Beware 
of purgatives or active treatment. 



488 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



INJURIES TO THE JAW. 

Causes. — Pulling the snaffle ; abuse of the bit ; too tight a curb- 
chain. 

Symptoms. — Discoloration before or behind the tush ; bruise under the 
tongue or upon the roof of the mouth ; tumor and bony growth upon 
the margin of the lower jaw. 

Treatment. — Cut upon the discoloration till the knife reaches the bone ; 
if fetor is present, inject the chloride of zinc lotion ; keep the wounds 
open, that the injured bone may come away. 

LACERATED EYELID. 

Causes. — Nails in the gangway, or the horses playfully snapping at 
each other. 

Treatment. — Bathe with cold water till the bleeding ceases; allow the 
separated parts to remain until the divided edges are sticky ; bring to- 
gether with sutures ; place the horse in the pillar-reins till the healing is 
perfected. 

LACERATED TONGUE. 

Causes. — Sticking to a horse when giving physic; making a "chaw" 
of the halter-rope. 

Treatment.— Insert no sutures; if the arteries are excised, cut off the 
hanging portion of the tongue; should the vessels have escaped, allow 
all to remain ; feed on gruel and soft food ; after every meal wash out 
the mouth with the solution ordered for aphtha, or with the chloride of 
zinc lotion. 



LAMP AS. 



A groom's fancy. 



LARYNGITIS. 

Cause. — Foul stables. 

Symptoms. — Dullness; enlargement over the larynx; stiff neck; short 
and suppressed cough ; breathing hurried and catching; pulse full; nasal 
membrane almost scarlet. 

Treatment. — Give drachm doses of tincture of aconite, in wineglasses 
of water every half hour, to amend the pulse. Refrain from bleeding. 
Put on a steaming nose-bag, and keep it almost constantly applied, to 
amend the breathing. Fix some hay, soaked in boiling water, upon the 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 489 

throat, by means of an eight-tailed bandage. Give, very carefully, the 
following drink, thrice daily : Infusion of squills, two ounces ; infusion 
of ipecacuanha, two ounces ; infusion of aconite, half an ounce ; extract 
of belladonna, one drachm, rubbed down with a pint of warm water. 
Place in a cool, well-aired, thickly-littered, loose box; bandage the legs; 
clothe the body ; give only gruel for food, changing it thrice daily. On 
improvement, a little moist food may be allowed. When improvement 
is confirmed, put a seton under the throat. Blister the throat ; pick and 
damp the hay ; sift, bruise, and scald the oats. Employ no lowering 
agents. 

LARVA IN THE SKIN. 

Causes. — Turning out to grass. The fly lays its egg upon the hair, 
the warmth of the body hatches it, and the larva enters the skin. The 
next summer a tolerably large abscess is established, the insect occupy- 
ing its center. 

Treatment. — Witli a lancet open the abscess, and squeeze out the 
larva. Dab the wound with a lotion made of chloride of zinc, one 
grain ; water, one ounce. 

LICE. 

Causes. —Filth and debility. 

Treatment. — Rub the skin with some cheap oil or grease. Wash, and 
then look for other diseases, as hide-bound, mange, etc. 

LAMINITIS, (SUBACUTE.) 

Causes. — Age ; long standing in the stable ; over-work, and stinted 
diet. 

Symptoms. — First noticed by the manner of going upon the heels of 
the fore feet. 

Treatment. — Get into slings. Remove the shoes. Do not bleed. If 
costiveness is present open the bowels with green-meat, but do not purge. 
Give a quart of stout, night and morning. Allow two drinks per day, 
each consisting of one ounce of sulphuric ether and half a pint of water ; 
half drachm doses of belladonna, to allay pain; sound oats and old 
beans, both crushed, for food ; water to be whitened ; no hay. No limit 
to this food, but five feeds to be given if the horse will eat so much. 



490 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



LUXATION OF THE PATELLA. 

Cause. — Bad food and constitutional weakness. 

Symptoms. — The horse stops short, and has one of the hind legs ex- 
tended backward. A swelling upon the outer side The pastern is 
flexed, the head raised, and the animal in great pain. In colts it will 
sometimes appear on the slightest cause. 

Treatment. — For colts, any flurry may restore the bone; but feed 
well, to eradicate the weakness. For horses, get into a shed, and, throw- 
ing a rope, one end of which has been fixed to the pastern, have the leg 
dragged forward while some one pushes the bone into its place. A man 
should be put to keep the bone in its situation for some hours. Give 
strengthening food, and do not use for six weeks subsequently. 

MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS.^ 

Cause. — Neglect. 

Symptoms. — Scurf upon the seats of flexion; mallenders at the back 
of the knee, an^ sallenders at the front of the hock. 

Treatment. — Cleanliness. Give the liquor arsenicalis drink, recom- 
mended for grease ; change the groom ; rub the parts with this ointment : 
Animal glycerin, one ounce; mercurial ointment, two drachms; pow- 
dered camphor, two drachms ; spermaceti, one ounce. If cracks appear, 
treat as though cracked heels were present. 

MANGE. 

Causes. — Starvation ; bad lodging and no grooming ; turning out to 
grass. 

Symptoms. — Scurf about the hairs of the mane ; the hair falls oflF in 
patches ; the skin is corrugated ; a few hairs remain upon the bare places, 
and these adhere firmly to the skin ; scrubbing the body against posts ; 
sores and crusts. To test its presence, scratch the roots of the mane 
and the horse will exhibit pleasure. 

Treatment. — Place the horse in the sunshine, or in a heated house, for 
one hour ; then whisk thoroughly, to remove scurf and scabs ; then rub 
in the following liniment : Animal glycerin, two parts ; oil of tar, two 
parts ; oil of turpentine, half a part; oil of juniper, half a part. Mix 
Leave on for two days ; wash ; anoint again ; wash ; anoint and wash 
once more, always leaving the liniment on for two clear days. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 491 



MEGRIMS. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptoms. — The horse suddenly stops; shakes the head; strange 
stubbornness may be exhibited, followed by a desire to i"uu into danger- 
ous places. Then ensues insensibility, accompanied by convulsions. 

Treatment. — Throw up on the first fit. Give a long rest, and try to 
amend the constitution. 

MELANOSIS. 

Cause. — Unknown. The disease only attacks gray horses which have 
become white, 

Syviptoms. — It appears as a lump of uncertain form, size, and situa- 
tion. The swelling, if cut into, discloses a cartilaginous sti'ucture, dotted 
here and there with black spots. Do not use the knife unless the swell- 
ing impede the usefulness, or should be peculiarly well placed for opera- 
tion. Feel the tail. A pimple on the dock is an almost certain sign of 
melanosis, which disease affects the internal organ even more virulently 
than it attacks the external parts. As melanosis proceeds, all spirit 
departs, and the animal is at length destroyed as utterly useless. 

Treatment. — Let tlie tumor alone. Forbid all use of the curry- 
comb. Dress very long and very gently with the brush only. Twice a 
week anoint the body with animal glycerin, one part; rose-water, two 
parts. 

NASAL GLEET. 

Causes. — Decayed molar tooth ; kicks from other horses ; injuries to 
the frontal bones. 

Symptoms. — Distortion of the face; pai'tial enlargement and soften- 
ing of the facial bones; irregular discharge of fetid pus from one nostril. 
The discharge is increased, or brought down by feeding off the ground, 
or by trotting fast. 

Treatment. — Surgical operation, with injection of a weak solution of 
chloride of zinc. Also give daily a ball composed of balsam of copaiba, 
half an ounce ; powdered cantharides, four grains ; cubebs, a sufficiency. 
If the foregoing should affect the urinary system, change it for half- 
drachm doses of extract of belladonna, dissolved in a wineglass of 
water. Give these every fourth day, and on such occasions repeat the 
belladonna every hour, until the appetite has been destroyed. 



492 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



NASAL POLYPUS. 



Symptoms. — An enlarged nostril; a copious mucous discharge; 
signs of suffocation, if the free nostril be stopped; a cough generally 
forces down the growth. 

Treatment. — Surgical operation, which removes the tumor. 

NAVICULAR DISEASE. 

Causes. — Frog pressure, and not shoeing with a leathern sole. The 
unprotected foot treads on a rolling stone, and navicular disease is the 
result. 

Symptoms. — Acute lameness ; this disappears, but may come again 
in six or nine months. Acute lameness is then present for a longer time, 
while the subsequent soundness is more short. Thus the disease pro- 
gresses, till the horse is lame for life. The pain in one foot causes 
greater stress upon the sound leg, and from this cause both feet are 
ultimately affected. The foot is pointed in the stable. The bulk 
diminishes, while the hoof thickens and contracts. The horse, when 
trotting, takes short steps, and upon the toe, going groggily. 

Treatment. — Feed liberally upon crushed oats and old beans. Soak 
the foot every other night in hot water. Afterward bandage the leg, 
fix on tips, and having smeared the horn with glycerin, put on a sponge 
boot. Rest very long — six months in the first instance — and then give 
three months agricultural employment. In bad cases resort to neu- 
rotomy, but do so upon the second attack of lameness; because con- 
tinued disease disorganizes the internal structures of the hoof, and also 
occasions the sound foot to be attacked by navicular disease. 

NEPHRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. 

Causes. — Bad provender, or niter in a mash, and long or fast work 
upon the following day. 

Symptoms. — Hard, quick pulse; short breathing; pallid membranes; 
looking at the loins; depressed head; roached back; hind legs strad- 
dling; scanty urine; refusing to turn in the stall; and crouching under 
pressure on the loins. Subsequently, pus is voided with the water. If 
the urine has a fetid odor, if blood be present, if the pulse grows 
quicker, if pressure gives no pain, and if the perspiration has a 
urinous smell, death is near at hand. To be certain of nephritis, insert 
the arm up the rectum and move the hand toward the kidneys. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 493 

Treatment. — Rub mustard into the skin of the loins. Cover it over 
to prevent it becoming dry. Apply fresh sheepskins as soon as these 
can be procured. Inject warm linseed tea every hour. A ball com- 
posed of Croton farina, two scruples ; extract of belladonna, half a 
drachm; treacle and linseed meal, a sufficiency, should be given imme- 
diately; one scruple of calomel; one drachm of opium should be 
sprinkled on the tongue every hour. A pail of linseed tea may be 
placed in the manger. Feed on linseed tea, and mind the oats — when 
allowed — are very good. While the pain is acute, give, thrice daily, a 
!tall composed of extract of belladonna, half a drachm; crude opium, 
I wo drachms; honey and linseed meal, of each a sufficiency. When 
the pain is excessive, repeat the above ball every hour. Should the 
pulse increase and become wiry, a scruple of aconite should be thrown 
upon the tongue every half hour until the artery softens, or the animal 
becomes affected with the drug. 

No cure is to be expected ; the disease may be arrested, but the kid- 
ney must be left in an irritable state. 

OCCULT SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Treading on a stone. 

Symptoms. — Sudden lameness, which never departs, but in the end 
becomes very bad. The disease is always worse after work, and better 
after rest. The foot is without disease, and the leg is not hot or pain- 
ful; yet the lameness continues and gets worse. The leg is snatched 
up in the walk, and the foot is not turned outward. 

Treatment. — Get the horse into slings. Rub the front of the hock 
with an embrocation composed of compound soap liniment, sixteen 
ounces ; tincture of cantharides, liquor ammonia and laudanum, of each 
two ounces. After the joint is embrocated, wrap it round with flannel, 
held upon the hock with elastic rings. Give three feeds of corn, a few 
old beans, and sweet hay daily. After the horse bears upon the dis- 
eased limb, allow the slings to remain for three months. Three months 
after it has left the slings, put to gentle work, but mind the labor is not 
in any way exhausting. The work must not be full till six months have 
elapsed. Keep the bowels regular with bran mashes and green-meat. 
If all treatment fail, cast the horse; retract the injured limb; make a 
small puncture, and inject one ounce of dilute spirits of wine, in w^hich 
lalf a drachm of iodine has been dissolved. Place the horse in slings, 
and apply cold water to the hock. When the pulse is quiet, feed very 
liberally. 



494 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



OPEN SYNOVIAL CAVITIES. 

Causes. — The pride of gentility, which apes what is not, and tries to 
pass off a horse with a ewe neck for an animal with a lofty crest. The 
quadruped, being in pain and constraint, necessarily trips, and cannot 
save itself from falling. Kicking in harness ; running away and being 
run into. 

Symptoms. — Air being admitted creates inflammation; inflammation 
causes constitutional irritability. Bursas are attended with least danger 
when punctured; sheaths of tendons are more dangerous; joints are 
by far the most serious. Judge which is opened by the extent of the 
wound and the quantity of synovia released. 

Treatment. — Exercise gentleness toward the injured animal. Wash 
as was directed for broken knees. Examine if there be any sac or bag 
into which dirt could have entered. If one exists, place a large spatula 
under the knee ; then take a knife with a sharp point, but with its edge 
blunted the two posterior thirds of its length; guard the point with a 
lump of beeswax; introduce this into the sac and drive the point 
through the bottom of the bag. An opening will thereby be created, 
through which the pus and dirt will gravitate. If the probe enters the 
knee of the flexed leg, unopposed, three-quarters of an inch, push it no 
farther ; be satisfied the cavity is opened. 

OPEN SYNOVIAL JOINTS. 

Treatment. — Proceed in the first instance as for broken knees. Then 
give a drink composed of sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one 
ounce; water, half a pint; look to the comfort. Should the eye rove, 
the breathing be hard, ears active, and the horse start at sounds, 
hourly repeat the drink before recommended, till these symptoms abate. 
Then place in a stall and allow four drinks and two pots of stout daily. 
Use the arnica lotion as for broken knees, during the first three and a 
half days. At the end of that time turn the horse gently round in the 
stall, and let it stand with its head toward the gangways. Place the 
slings before the horse and leave the animal to contemplate them for 
half an hour. Then, with extreme gentleness, fix them; but do not 
pull the cloth up to the abdomen. Leave a pail of water suspended 
from one pillar, and feed from a high trough, supported upon light legs. 
Let the horse be watched night and day for the remainder of the week. 
When the animal is at ease in the slings, these may be heightened till 
the cloth lightly touches, but not presses, against the belly. With the 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 495 

slings change to the chloride of zinc lotion, one scruple to the pint of 
water ; have this frequently applied during the day. It will coagulate 
the albumen and promote the healing of the wound. The albumen will 
accumulate as a large ball in front of the injury; do not touch it. 
Allow it to fall off. The cure is nearly perfect when it falls. When 
pressure can be endured, the slings may be removed ; though the heal- 
ing process should be confirmed before the animal is allowed to stand 
near anything against which it could strike the knee. 

OPERATIONS. 

Admit of no abbreviation ; they should never be hastily undertaken; 
they should be only resorted to after time has been allowed for thought, 
and opportunity has been afforded for more than one perusal of the 
directions detailed in this book. 

OSSIFIED CARTILAGES. 

Cause. — Battering the foot upon hard roads. 

Symptoms. — Of little consequence in heavy horses unless accompanied 
with ring-bone. The disease causes lameness in light horses used for 
fast work. 

Treatment. — Rest; liberal food ; and small blisters to the foot imme- 
diately above the sides of the hoof. 

OVERREACH. 

Cause. — When a good stepper is very tired, this accident sometimes 
happens — the coronet of the fore foot upon the outer side being severely 
wounded by the inside of the hind shoe. 

Symptom. — A severe wound and a large slough, probably followed by 
a false quarter. 

Treatment. — Feed liberally, and bathe the injury thrice daily with the 
chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of water. 

PARROT-MOUTH. 

Cause. — Natural malformation. 

Symptoms. — Projecting upper teeth ; an inability to graze or to clean 
out the manger. 



496 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



PARTIAL PARALYSIS. 

Cause. — Violent exertion. 

Symptom. — One hind leg gets in the way of the other, and threatens 
to throw the animal down. 

Treatment. — A loose box ; warm clothing ; good grooming ; warmth 
to loins ; regulate the bowels with mashes and green-meat ; absolute rest. 
Give the following ball night and morning : Strychnia, half a grain, 
(gradually work this medicine up to one grain and a half;) iodide of 
iron, one grain ; quassia powder aud treacle, a sufficiency 

PHLEBITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE VEIN. 

Cause — Motion. Bleeding in the neck and turning out to grass ; or 
from either of the limbs, and then forcing the animal to walk. 

Symptoms. — The earliest indication is a separation of the lips of the 
wound and the presence of a small quantity of thin discharge. A small 
swelling then takes place, and the vein hardens above the puncture. 
Then abscesses form along the course of the vessel. These mature, 
burst, send forth a contaminated pus. The abscesses are united by 
sinuses. If these signs are neglected, a dark discharge resembling de- 
cayed blood issues from the numerous wounds and soils the neck. 
Dullness ensues ; the brain becomes affected ; and the horse perishes 
phrenitic. 

Treatment. — Remove the pin and apply a blister. Another may be 
required. In bad cases, blister must follow blister, but not be rubbed 
in. A little oil of cantharides should be put over the sore with a paste- 
brush. Place in a loose box and litter with tan ; feed on slops, which 
require no mastication. Let the horse remain there and be so fed for 
six weeks subsequent to the cessation of all treatment. Then give a 
little exercise at a slow pace, gradually augmented. At the end of three 
months the horse may do slow work. But the horse should not wear a 
collar or go into the shafts before the expiration of six months. 

PHRENITIS. 

Cause. — Unknown, 

Symptom — Heaviness, succeeded by fury in excess, but without any 
indication of malice. 

Treatment. — Bleed from both jugulars till the animal drops. Then 
pin up, and give a purgative of double strength. Follow this with 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 49^ 

another blood-letting, if necessary, and scruple doses of tobacco ; half- 
drachm doses of aconite root ; or drachm doses of digitalis — whichever 
is soonest obtained. But whichever is procured must be infused in a 
pint of boiling water, and, when cool and strained, it ought to be given 
every half hour till the animal becomes quiet. But the probable result 
is by no means cheering, even if death is by these means avoided. 

PLEURISY. 

Causes. — Over-exertion ; blows ; injuries ; cold. 

Symptoms. — These are quickly developed. The pulse strikes the 
finger; pain continuous; agony never ceases; horse does not feed. 
Body hot ; feet cold ; partial perspirations. Muscles corrugated in 
places ; cough, when present, suppressed and dry ; auscultation detects 
a grating sound and a dull murmur at the chest. Pressure between the 
ribs produces great pain or makes the animal resentful. The head is 
turned very often toward the side ; the fore foot paws ; the breathing is 
short and jerking. 

Treatment. — Should be active. Bleed, to ease the horse ; place in a 
loose box ; bandage the legs ; leave the body unclothed. Give, every 
quarter of an hour, a scruple of tincture of aconite in a wineglass of 
warm water. When pulse has softened, give, every second hour, sulphuric 
ether and laudanum, of each one ounce; water, half a pint. Do not 
bleed a second time. When the pulse and pain are amended, introduce 
the steaming apparatus. Do nothing for the bowels. Place luke-warm 
water within easy reach of the head, and give nothing more while the 
disease rages. When the disease departs, return with caution to full 
food. After the affection subsides, blister throat and chest. If the 
horse is costive, administer enemas ; or a bundle of cut grass may be 
presented with the other food. 

PNEUMONIA. 

Causes. — Fat; irregular work ; and sudden exertion. 
Symptoms. — Breathing labored; oppressed pulse; partial conscious- 
ness ; giddiness. Standing with outstretched legs ; head and ears de- 
jected ; coat rough ; extremities and body cold ; visible membranes 
discolored ; bowels costive ; feeling half dead ; and general oppression. 
Treatment. — Bleed but once ; take only blood sufficient to restore 
consciousness ; do not attempt to obtain blood, if the liquid flows black 
and thick. Place in a loose box strown with damp tan ; take off the 
shoes ; place water within easy reach ; no food. If winter, clothe ; then 



498 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

introduce steam ; when the steam is abundant, take off the clothes. Give 
sohition of aconite root, half an ounce ; sulphuric ether, two ounces ; 
extract of belladonna, (rubbed down with half a pint of water,) one 
drachm. Repeat the drink three times each day. When the pulse 
improves, withdraw the aconite ; when the breathing amends, abstract 
the belladonna; or increase either as pulse or breathing becomes worse. 
Allow only hay tea, with a little oatmeal in it, until the disease abates. 
On amendment, cautiously increase the food. Lying down is the first 
sign of improvement. Do not disturb the animal: it must require rest, 
having stood throughout the attack. 

POLL EVIL. 

Causes. — Hanging back in the halter ; hitting the poll against the 
beam of the stable door; blows on the head; and any external injury. 

Symptoms. — The nose is protruded and the head kept as motion- 
less as possible ; the animal hangs back when it is feeding from the 
manger. Pressure or enforced motion excites resistance. Swelling: 
the swelling bursts in several places, from which exude a foul, fistulous 
discharge. Pus has been secreted ; confinement has caused it to decay ; 
while motion and fascia have occasioned it to burrow. 

Treatment. — Paint the part lightly with tincture of cantharides, or 
acetate of cantharides. Do this daily till vesication is produced; then 
stop. When the swelling enlarges, open the prominent or soft places. 
Allow the pus to issue ; then cut down on the wound till the seat of the 
disease is gained. Use a proper knife, and include as many pipes as 
possible in one clean cut. All others should join this. Empty out all 
concrete matter. Wash the cavity with cold water. Excise all loose 
pieces of tendon and all unhealthy flesh. Moisten the sore with the 
chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce, and cover the wound 
with a cloth dipped in the solution of tar. If the disease has burst, 
still include the pipes in one smooth incision; clean out the concrete 
pus, and treat as has been directed. Spare the ligament which lies 
under the mane ; and work in a breast-strap after recovery. 

PRICK OF THE SOLE. 

Cause. — Generally the smith's carelessness when shoeing the horse. 

Symptom. — Great lameness. 

Treatment. — Withdraw the nails of the shoe. If one is wet, cut 
down on that hole until the sensitive sole is exposed. If not very 
lame, treat with lotion of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of 
water. If very lame, treat as if the injury were a suppurating corn. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 499 



PRURIGO. 

Cause. — Heat of body. 

Symptom. — Itchiness. The horse rubs off hair; but never exposes a 
dry, corrugated surface. 

Treatment. — Take away some hay. Give two bundles of grass per 
day. Allow two bran mashes each day till the bowels are open. Apply 
either of the following washes: Animal glycerin, one part; rose-water, 
two parts. Or, sulphuric acid, one part ; water, ten parts. Or, acetic 
acid, one part ; water, seven parts. Drink : Liquor arsenicalis, one 
ounce; tincture of muriate of iron, one ounce and a half; water, one 
pint — half a pint to be given every night. Withdraw the drink a week 
after the disease has disappeared. Allow a pot of porter and an extra 
feed of oats each day. 

PUMICE FOOT. 

Cause. — An animal reared on marshy land, having high action, bat- 
ters the feet upon London stones. 

Symptoms.- — Bulging sole; weak crust; strong bars, and good frog. 

Treatment. — The only relief possible is afforded by a bar shoe of the 
dish kind, and a leathern sole. The constant use of equal parts of 
animal glycerin and tar is also beneficial to the hoof. 

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA. 

Cause. — Unknown. Universal congestion. 

Symptoms. — The attack is sudden. The body, head, and limbs en- 
large ; consciousness is partially lost. The horse stands, and the breath- 
ing is quickened. Through the skin there exudes serum with blood. 
The nostrils and lips enlarge, and part of the swollen tongue protrudes 
from the mouth. The appetite is not quite lost, although deglutition is 
difficult. Thirst is great. 

Treatment. — Bleed till the animal appears relieved. A second vene- 
section may be demanded, but it should be adopted with caution. Give 
half an ounce of chloroform in a pint of linseed oil, in the first stage. 
Repeat the dose in half an hour. No amendment following, give two 
ounces of sulphuric ether in one pint of cold water. In half an hour 
repeat the dose if necessary. Perform tracheotomy to ease the breath- 
ing. Incise the protruding tongue. Squeeze out the fluid and return 
the organ to the mouth. Should the skin slough, bathe the part with 
solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce of water. 



500 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



QUITTOR. 

Causes. — Confined pus from suppurating corn; or prick of the sole; 
matter results, and this issues at the coronet. Or from injury to the 
coronet, generating pus, and this burrowing downward, as it cannot 
pierce the coronary substance. The secretion may also penetrate the 
cartilage, and thus establish sinuses in almost every possible direction. 

Symptoms. — The horse is very lame. The animal is easier after the 
quittor has burst. Probe for the sinuses. If, after the superficial sinuses 
are treated, among the creamy pus there should appear a dark speck of 
albuminous fluid, make sure of another sinus, probably working toward 
the central structures of the foot. 

RHEUMATISM. 

Cause. — Generally follows other disorders, as influenza, chest affec- 
tions, and most acute diseases. Very rarely does it appear without a 
forerunner. 

Symptoms. — Swelling of particular parts, generally the limbs ; heat 
and acute lameness. The disorder is apt to fly about the body. The 
synovia is always increased when the joints are attacked. The pulse 
and breathing are both disturbed by agony. 

Treatment. — Lead into a loose box ; fill the place with steam. (See 
page 313.) Get ready the slings; put the belly-piece under the horse, 
but do not pull it up so as to lift the legs from the ground. Keep the 
steam up for one hour. Then have several men with cloths ready to 
wipe the animal dry ; mind they are perfectly silent. Next rub into the 
diseased parts the following: Compound soap liniment, sixteen ounces; 
tincture of cantharides, liquor ammonia, and laudanum, of each two 
ounces. Afterward incase the limbs in flannel. (See page 314.) Then 
give a bolus composed of powdered colchicura, two drachms; iodide of 
potassium, one drachm ; simple mass, a sufficiency. Should the attack 
succeed upon other diseases, the diet must be supporting, everything 
being softened by heat and water. Next morning repeat the steaming, 
and give calomel, a scruple; opium, two drachms. At night steam 
again, and repeat the first bolus. Should the horse be fat, withdraw 
all corn, if the strength can do without it. 

RING-BONE. 

Cause. — Dragging heavy loads up steep hills. 

Symptoms. — A roughness of hair on the pastern and a bulging forth 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 501 

of the hoof. A want of power to flex the pastern. An inability to 
bring the sole to the ground only upon an even surface. Loss of power 
and injury to utility. 

Treatment. — In the first stage apply poultices, with one drachm of 
camphor and of opium. Afterward rub with iodide of lead, one ounce; 
simple ointment, eight ounces. Continue treatment for a fortnight after 
all active symptoms have subsided, and allow liberal food and rest; work 
gently when labor is resumed. 

RING-WORM. 

Symptoms. — Hair falls off in patches, exposing a scurfy skin. The 
scurf congregates on the bare place about the circumference, which is 
apt to ulcerate. 

Treatment. — Be very clean. Wash night and morning, and afterward 
apply the following ointment: Animal glycerin, one ounce; spermaceti, 
one ounce ; iodide of lead, two drachms. Many other things are popular. 
For a detailed list of these, see the body of the book. A drink is like- 
wise of use when employed with the ointment. Liquor arsenicalis, one 
ounce; tincture of muriate of iron, one ounce and a half; water, one 
quart. Mix, and give every night half a pint for a dose. Should the 
ulceration prove obstinate, apply permanganate of potash, half an ounce ; 
water, three ounces. Or, chloride of zinc, two scruples; water, one 
pint. Moisten the parts with a soft brush six times daily. Feed well, 
and do not work for one month. 

ROARING. 

Causes. — The bearing-rein; the folly of fashion. 
Symptom. — A noise made at each inspiration. 

Treatment. — No remedy. The cabman's pad is the only alleviation : 
that conceals and does not cure the disease. 

RUPTURE, OR STRICTURE OF THE (ESOPHAGUS. 

Cause. — The use of the butt-end of a carter's whip, which either 
rends the lining membrane of or ruptures the gullet. 

Symptom of Rupture. — The body becomes distended with gas, and 
death ensues. Of Rent Membrane. — This induces a disinclination to 
feed, as the first symptom. A stricture is formed. Excessive hunger. 
Distention of the tube. A large sac is developed out of the stretched 
membrane above the stricture. Then, after feeding, the animal fixes the 



502 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

ueck, and returns the masticated food through the mouth and nostrils. 
Accompanying loss of condition and failure of strength. 

Treatment. — Feed on prepared soft food : though the horse is gener- 
ally not worth its ordinary keep at the stage when this is required. 

SANDCRACK. 

Causes — Bad health, provoking imperfect secretion. Treading for 
any length of time upon a very dry soil. 

Symptoms. — Quarter crack occurs on light horses upon the inner side 
of the hoof. It usually commences at the coronet, goes down the foot, 
and reaches to the laminae. Toe crack happens in heavy wheelers, and 
is caused by digging the toe into the ground when dragging a load up 
hill. From the sensitive laminae, when exposed, fungoid granulations 
sometimes sprout, which, being pinched, produce excessive pain and 
acute lameness. 

Treatme7it. — Always pare out the crack, so as to convert it into a 
groove. When the crack is partial, draw a line with a heated iron above 
and below the fissure. If granulations have sprouted, cleanse the wound 
with chloride of zinc lotion, one grain to the ounce of water, and then 
cut them off. Afterward place the foot in a poultice. Subsequently 
pare down the edges of the crack while the horn is soft. Use the lotion 
frequently. Draw lines from the coronet to the crack, so as to cut off 
communication between the fissure and the newly-secreted horn. Shoe 
with a bar shoe, having the seat of crack well eased off and also a clip 
on either side. If the horse must work, lay a piece of tow saturated 
with the lotion into the crack : bind the hoof tightly with wax-end. Tie 
over all a strip of cloth, and give this a coating of tar. When the horse 
returns, inspect the part. Wash out any grit with the chloride of zinc 
lotion. Feed liberally on prepared food. 

SCALD MOUTH. 

Cause. — Powerful medicine, which burns the lining membrane of the 
mouth. 

Symptom. — A dribbling of saliva, with constant motion and repeated 
smacking of the lips. 

Treatment. — Give soft food, and use the wash recommended for 
aphtha. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 503 



SEEDY TOE, 

Cause. — Weakness, inducing an imperfect secretion of horn. 

Symptom. — A separation between the crust of the coronet and the 
soft horn of the laminae, commencing at the toe of the foot. 

Treatment. — Remove the shoe Probe the fissure, which will be ex- 
posed. Cut away all the separated crust. Throw up until the removed 
portion has grown again. Feed liberally. 

SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA. 

Causes. — Slashing with the whip over the head ; hay-seeds falling into 
the eyes ; horses biting at each other in play ; blows, etc. 

Symptoms. — Tears ; closed eyelid ; the ball of the eye becomes en- 
tirely or partially white. 

Treatment. — Remove any foreign body; fasten a cloth across the 
forehead ; moisten it with a decoction of poppy-heads to which some 
tincture of arnica has been added. If a small abscess should appear on 
the surface of the eye, open it, and bathe with chloride of zinc lotion. 
Should inflammation be excessive, puncture eye vein, and place some 
favorite food on the ground. 

SITFAST. 

Causes. — 111 health; badly-fitting saddle; too energetic a rider; loose 
girths ; ruck in the saddle-cloth. 

Symptom. — Like a corn on the human foot, but the hard, bare patch 
is surrounded by a circle of ulceration. 

Treatment. — The knife should remove the thickened skin. Chloride 
of zinc, one grain; water, one ounce, to the wound. Attend to the 
bowels. Feed liberally; exercise well; and give, night and morning, 
liquor arsenicalis, half an ounce ; tincture of muriate of iron, three- 
quarters of an ounce ; water, one pint. Mix, and give. 

SORE THROAT. 

Causes — In colts, change from freedom to work, from the field to the 
stable, is the cause. Sore throat, however, may be caused by close sta- 
bles, or be an indication of some greater disease. 

Symptoms. — Perpetual deglutition of saliva; want of appetite; ina- 
bility to swallow a draught of liquid — the fluid returning partly by the 
nostrils, and each gulp being accompanied with an audible effort. 



504 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



Treatment. — Forbear all work; clothe warmly; house in a large, 
well-littered, loose box. Gruel for drink ; green-meat, with three feeds 
of bruised and scalded oats, also beans, daily. If the bowels are obsti- 
nate, administer a drink composed of solution of aloes, four ounces ; 
essence of anise seed, half an ounce ; water, one pint. Should the throat 
not amend, dissolve half an ounce of extract of belladonna in a gallon 
of water ; hold up the head ; pour half a pint of this preparation into 
the mouth, and in thirty seconds let the head down ; do this six or eight 
times daily. No improvement being observed, try permanganate of pot- 
ash, half a pint ; water, one gallon : to be used as directed in the pre- 
vious recipe. Still no change being remarked, prepare chloride of zinc, 
three drachms ; extract of belladonna, half an ounce ; tincture of capsi- 
cums, two drachms ; water, one gallon. 

All being useless, give two pots of stout daily, and blister the throat. 

No alteration ensuing, cast the horse, and mop out the fauces with a 
sponge which is wet with nitrate of silver, five grains ; water, one ounce. 
Give a ball daily composed of oak-bark and treacle. 

If none of these measures succeed, the throat must be complicated 
with some other disease. 

SPASM OF THE DIAPHRAGM. 

Cause. — Imprudently riding too far and too fast. 

Symptom. — Distress, and a strange noise heard from the center of the 
horse. 

Treatment. — Pull up; cover the horse's body; lead to the nearest 
stable. Give as soon as possible a drink composed of sulphuric ether, 
two ounces ; laudanum, one ounce ; tincture of camphor, half an ounce ; 
cold water or gruel, one pint. Give four drinks, one every quarter of 
an hour ; then another four, one every half hour, and then at longer 
intervals as the animal recovers. When first brought in, procure five 
steady and quiet men ; give a bandage each to four of them, and order 
them silently to bandage the legs ; give a basin and sponge to the other, 
and bid him sponge the openings to the body. This done, and sweat 
and dirt removed, clothe perfectly after the skin is quite dry. 

SPASM OF THE URETHRA. 



Cause. — Acridity in the food or water. 

Symptoms. — Small and violent emissions ; straddling gait. Roached 
back ; pain ; total suppression of urine. 

Treatment. — Insert the arm up the rectum, and feel the gorged blad- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 505 

der. Give, by the mouth, four ounce doses of sulphuric ether and of 
laudanum mixed with a quart of cold water, and, as injection, mixed 
with three pints of cold water. Repeat these medicines every quarter 
of an hour until relieved. If no physic be at hand, open both jugular 
veins, and allow the blood to flow until the horse falls. Should not the 
urine then flow forth, insert the arm and press upon the bladder. 



SPASMODIC COLIC— FRET— GRIPES. 

Causes. — Fast driving ; change of water ; change of food ; getting 
wet ; fatiguing journeys ; aloes ; and often no cause can be traced. 

Symptoms. \st Stage. — Horse is feeding ; becomes uneasy ; ceases 
eating ; hind foot is raised to strike the belly ; fore foot paws the pave- 
ment ; the nose is turned toward the flank, and an attack of fret is rec- 
ognized. 2(i Stage. — Alternate ease and fits of pain ; the exemptions 
grow shorter as the attacks become longer ; the horse crouches ; turns 
round ; then becomes erect ; pawing, etc. follow ; a morbid fire now 
lights up the eyes. 3cZ Stage. — Pains lengthen ; action grows more wild ; 
often one foot stamps on the ground ; does not feed, but stares at the 
abdomen ; at last, without warning, leaps up and falls violently on the 
floor ; seems relieved ; rolls about till one leg rests against the wall ; 
should no assistance be now afforded, the woi'st consequences may be 
anticipated. 

Treatment. — Place in a loose box, guarded by trusses of straw ranged 
against the walls. Give one ounce each of sulphuric ether and of laud- 
anum in a pint of cold water, and repeat the dose every ten minutes if 
the symptoms do not abate. If no improvement be observed, double 
the active agents, and at the periods stated persevere with the medicine. 
A pint of turpentine, dissolved in a quart of solution of soap, as an 
enema, has done good. No amendment ensuing, dilute some strong 
liquor ammonia with six times its bulk of water, and, saturating a cloth 
with the fluid, hold it by means of a horse-rug close to the abdomen. It 
is a blister ; but its action must be watched or it may dissolve the skin. 
If, after all, the symptoms continue, there must be more than simple 
colic to contend with. 

SPAVIN. 

Cause. — Hard work. 

Symptom. — Any bony enlargement upon the lower and inner side of 
the hock Prevents the leg being flexed. Hinders the hoof from being 
turned outward. Causes the front of the shoe to be worn and the toe 
of the hoof to be rendered blunt by dragging the foot along the ground. 



50G ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

Leaves the stable limping ; returns bettered by exercise. Sickle hocks, 
or cow hocks, are said to be most subject. 

Treatment. — View the suspected joint from before, from behind, and 
from either side. Afterward feel the hock. Any enlargement upon the 
seat of disease, to be felt or seen, is a spavin. Feed liberally, and rest 
in a stall. When the part is hot and tender, rub it with belladonna and 
opium, one ounce of each to an ounce of water. Apply a poultice. Or 
put opium and camphor on the poultice. Or rub the spavin with equal 
parts of chloroform and camphorated oil. The heat and pain being 
relieved, apply the following, with friction : Iodide of lead, one ounce ; 
simple ointment, eight ounces. 



SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA. 

Cause. — The fumes of impure stables. 

Symptoms. — A swollen eyelid ; tears ; a hard pulse ; sharp breathing ; 
a staring coat ; a clammy mouth ; the nasal membrane is inflamed or 
leaden colored ; the lid can only be raised when in shadow. The ball 
of eye reddened from the circumference ; the pupil closed ; the iris lighter 
than is natural. The disease may change from eye to eye ; the duration 
of any visitation is very uncertain ; the attacks may be repeated, and 
end in the loss of one or both eyes. If one eye only is lost, the remain- 
ing eye generally strengthens. 

Treatment. — Remove from the stable and place in a dark shed. Open 
the eye vein, and puncture the lid if needed ; put a cloth saturated with 
cold water over both eyes. If the horse is poor, feed well ; if fat, sup- 
port, but do not cram ; if in condition, lower the food. Sustain upon a 
diet which requires no mastication. Give the following ball twice daily : 
Powdered colchicum, two drachms ; iodide of iron, one drachm ; calo- 
mel, one scruple ; make up with extract of gentian. So soon as the ball 
affects the system, change it for liquor arsenicalis, three ounces ; muri- 
ated tincture of iron, five ounces. Give half an ounce in a tumbler of 
water twice daily. See the stable is rendered pure before the horse 
returns to it. 

SPLINT. 

Causes — Early and hard work ; blows, kicks, etc. 

Symptom. — Any swelling upon the inner and lower part of the knee 
of the fore leg, or any enlargement upon the shin-bone of either limb. 
On the knee they are important, as they extend high up. On the shin 
they are to be dreaded, as they interfere with the movements of the ten- 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 507 

dons. All are painful when growing, and in that state generally cause 
lameness. 

Treatment. — Feel down the leg. Any heat, tenderness, or enlarge- 
ment is proof of a splint. If, on the trot, one leg is not fully flexed, 
or the horse " dishes" with it, it confirms the opinion. Time and liberal 
food are the best means of perfecting them. When they are painful, 
poultice, having sprinkled on the surface of the application one drachm 
each of opium and of camphor. Or rub the place with one drachm of 
chloroform and two drachms of camphorated oil. Periosteotomy (see 
Operations) is sometimes of service. When a splint interferes with a 
tendon, the only chance of cure is to open the skin and to cut off the 
splint, afterward treating the wound with a lotion composed of chloride 
of zinc, one grain ; water, one ounce. To check the growth of a splint, 
rub it well and frequently with iodide of lead, one ounce ; simple oint- 
ment, eight ounces. 

SPRAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS. 

Cause. — Cart-work upon a hilly country. 
Symptom. — Gradual heightening of the hind heel. 
Treatment. — The only possible relief is afforded by an operation — 
"division of the tendons." 

STAGGERS. 

Sleepy Staggers and Mad Staggers are only different stages of the 

same disorder. 

Cause. — Over-gorging. 

Symptoms. — Excessive thirst ; dullness or sleepiness ; snoring ; press- 
ing the head against a wall. Some animals perish in this state ; others 
commence trotting without taking the head from the wall, and such gen- 
erally die, but sometimes recover. Other horses quit the sleepy state ; 
the eyes brighten ; the breath becomes quick. Such animals exhibit the 
greatest possible violence, but without the slightest desire for mischief 

Treatment. — Allow no water. Give a quart of oil. Six hours after- 
ward give another quart of oil, with twenty drops of croton oil in it, 
should no improvement be noticed. In another six hours, no amendment 
being exhibited, give another quart of oil, with thirty drops of croton 
oil in it. After a further six hours, repeat the first dose, and administer 
the succeeding doses, at the intervals already stated, until the appear- 
ance changing indicates that the body has been relieved. 

For the full development of the mad stage no remedies are of the 
slightest avail. 



% 



508 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



STRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDONS. 

Cause. — Hard work on uneven ground, or the rider punishing a horse 
with the snaffle and the spurs. 

Symptoms. — The animal goes oddly, not lame. The defective action 
will disappear upon rest, but stiffness is aggravated by subsequent labor. 
Any attempt to work the horse sound induces incurable lameness or 
contraction of the tendons. 

Treatment. — Allow several hours to elapse before any attempt is made 
to discover the disease. A small swelling, hot, soft, and sensitive, may 
then appear. Bind round it a linen bandage, and keep it wet with cold 
water. Have men to sit up bathing this for the three first nights; after- 
ward apply moisture only by day Throw up the horse. Give four 
drachms of aloes. Do not turn out, but allow two feeds of corn each 
day. Keep in a stall, and do not put to work till more than recovered. 



STRANGLES. 

Cause. — Something requiring to be cast from the system, so as to suit 
the young body to a sudden change. 

Symptoms. — A slight general disturbance, which, however, remains. 
The colt continues sickly. After a day or two, the neck becomes stiff, 
and a swelling appears between the jaws. The enlargement at first is 
hard, hot, and tender. A discharge from the nose comes on. The 
symptoms increase; the throat becomes sore. Breathing is oppressed; 
coat stares; appetite is lost; tumor softens, and, being opened, the 
animal speedily recovers. 

Treatment. — Neither purge nor bleed. Give all the nourishment that 
can be swallowed. If all food is rejected, whiten the water, and a little 
cut grass may tempt the colt. Corn, ground and scalded, may be offered, 
a little at a time from the hand. No grooming ; light clothing ; ample 
bed; door and window of loose box should be open. Gently stimulate 
the throat with the following: Spirits of turpentine, two parts; lauda- 
num, one part ; spirits of camphor, one part. Apply with a paste- 
brush morning, noon, and night, until the throat is sore. After every 
application, take three pieces of flannel, place these over the part, and 
bind on with an eight-tailed bandage. So soon as the tumor points, 
apply the twitch, and have one fore leg held up. Then open the swell- 
ing with an abscess knife. It may be necessary to make another inci- 
sion. There are other occasional varieties of strangles, for which 
consult the substance of the work, pages 212, 273. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 509 



STRINGHALT. 
Gaufie. — Over-exertion. 

Symplom. — Raising both hind legs, one after the other, previous to 
starting. 

Treatment. — None is possible. 

SURFEIT. 

Cause. — Heat of body. 

Symptom. — An eruption of round, blunt, and numerous spots. 

Treatment. — If the pulse is not affected, the symptom may disappear 
in a few hours. Look to the food. Abstract eight pounds of hay, and 
allow two bundles of cut grass per day. Even increase the oats, but 
with each feed give a handful of old crushed beans. The following 
drink will be of service : Liquor arseuicalis, one ounce ; tincture of 
muriate of iron, one ounce and a half; water, one quart. Mix. Give 
daily, one pint for a dose. 

Symptom. — If a young horse has been neglected through the winter, 
the surfeit lumps do not disappear. An exudation escapes ; the consti- 
tution is involved, and the disease is apt to settle upon the lungs. 

Treatment. — Do not take out. Keep the stable aired, and attend to 
cleanliness. Feed as previously directed, and allow bran mashes when 
the bowels are constipated. Administer the drink recommended above, 
night and morning. Clothe warmly; remove from a stall to a loose 
box. Should the pulse suddenly sink, allow two pots of stout each day. 
If the appetite fail, give gruel instead of water, and present a few cut 
carrots from the hand. The shortest of these cases occupy a fortnight. 

SWOLLEN LEGS. 

Cause. — Debility. 

Treatment. — Place in a loose box. No hay for some weeks. Damp 
the corn, and sprinkle a handful of ground oak-bark on each feed. At- 
tend to exercise. If the legs continue to enlarge, hand-rub them well 
and long. 

TEETH. 

Cause. — A thickening of the membrane sometimes conceals the upper 
tushes and provokes constitutional symptoms. 
Treatment. — Lance the membrane. 
Symptoms of Toothache. — Head cai-ried on one side, or pressed 



510 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

against the wall; saliva dribbles from the lips; quidding or partial 
mastication of the food, and allowing the morsel to fall from the mouth. 
Appetite capricious ; sometimes spirit is displayed — then the horse is 
equally dejected. The tooth dies; the opposing tooth grows long. 
The opposite teeth become very sharp, from the horse masticating only 
on one side. The long tooth presses upon the gum and provokes nasal 
gleet. 

Treatment. — Chisel off projecting tooth ; file down the sharp edges 
of the opposite teeth, and look to the mouth frequently. 

TETANUS. 

Causes. — Cold rain; draughts of air; too much light; wounds. 

Symptoms. — The wound often dries up. The horse grows fidgety. 
Upon lifting up the head, "the haw" projects over the eye. The tail is 
raised; the ears are pricked; the head is elevated; the limbs are stiflf; 
the body feels hard. Any excitement may call up a fearful spasm. 

Treatment. — Give a double dose of purgative medicine. Place in 
solitude and in quiet. Put a pailful of gruel and a thin mash within 
easy reach of the head. Let nobody excepting the favorite groom 
approach the place ; and allow him to enter it only once a day. 

THOROUGH-PIN. 

Cause. — Excessive labor. 

Symptom. — A round tumor going right through the leg, and appear- 
ing anterior to the point of the hock. It is nearly always connected 
with bog spavin. 

Treatment — Never attack thorough-pin and bog spavin at the same 
time. Relieve the thorough-pin first by means of rags, cork, and an 
India-rubber bandage, cut so as not to press on the bog spavin. If the 
corks occasion constitutional symptoms, use a truss to press upon the 
thorough-pin, which, being destroyed, apply a perfect bandage and 
wetted cloths to the bog spavin. When attempting to cure bog spavin, 
however, continue the remedy to the thorough-pin, or the cure of one 
affection may reproduce the other. 

THRUSH. 

Cause. — Standing in filth, when it appears in the hind feet; navicular 
disease, when seen in contracted feet. 

Symptoms. — A foul discharge running from the cleft of the frog. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 511 

This decomposes the horn. The surface of the frog becomes ragged, 
and the interior converted into a white powder. The affection does not 
generally lame; but should the horse tread on a rolling stone, it may fall 
as though it were shot. 

Treatment. — Pare away the frog till only sound horn remains, or 
until the flesh is exposed. Then tack on the shoe and return to a clean 
stall. Apply the chloride of zinc lotion — three grains to the ounce of 
water — to the cleft of the frog by means of some tow, wrapped round a 
small bit of stick. When the stench has ceased, a little liquor of lead 
will perfect the cure. For contracted feet pare the frog, and every 
morning dress once with the chloride of zinc lotion ; but do not strive 
to stop the thrush. 

TREAD. 

Cause. — Fatigue and overweight. 

Symptom. — In light horses it occurs toward the end of a long jour- 
ney. The hind foot is not removed when the fore foot is put to the 
ground. The end of the fore shoe consequently tears off" a portion of 
the coronet from the hind foot. In cart-horses, after the horse is 
fatigued, the load has to be taken down a steep hill ; the animal, being 
in the shafts, rocks to and fro ; the legs cross, and the calkin of one 
shoe wounds the coronet of the opposite hoof. 

Treatment. — Bathe the sore with the chloride of zinc lotion, one 
grain to the ounce of water. Continue to do this thrice daily ; feed 
liberally. A slough will take place, and the animal be well in about a 
month ; the only danger being the after-result of a false quarter. 

TUMORS. 

These are so various and of such different natures, that in every case 
a surgeon should be consulted. 

WARTS. 

Cause. — Unknown. 

Symptom. — There are three kinds of warts. 1st. Some are contained 
in a cuticular sac, and, upon this being divided, shell out. 2d. The 
second are cartilaginous and vascular. These grow to some size, and 
are rough on the surface. They are apt to ulcerate. 3d. Consists of 
a cuticular case, inclosing a soft granular substance. 

Treatment. — When of the first kind, slit up, and squeeze them out. 
The second kind, excise and apply a heated iron to stop the bleeding. 
The third kind are better let alone. 



512 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 



WATER FARCY. 



Cause. — Overwork and coarse feed, succeeded by periods of stagna- 
tion. It is the warning that true farcy threatens the stable. 

Symptoms. — Load less and work less. 

Treatment. — Improve the diet, and never allow the horse to remain a 
(lay in the stable without exercise. Saturate the swollen limb with cold 
water every morning, and have it afterward thoroughly hand-rubbed 
until it is perfectly dry. Should lameness remain after the first day, a 
few punctures may be made into the limb, but only through the skin. 
Give the following ball every morning : Iodide of iron, one drachm ; 
powdered cantharides, two grains; powdered arsenic, one grain; 
Cayenne pepper, one scruple; sulphate of iron, one drachm; treacle 
and linseed meal, a sufficiency. Mix. The delay even of a day in 
treatment is attended with danger in this disease. 

WIND GALLS. 

Cause. — Hard work. 

Symptoms. — Small enlargements, generally upon the hind legs and 
below the hocks ; no lameness ; two wind-galls appear above the pastern, 
one beneath that joint; after extraordinary labor, the round swellings 
disappear and the course of the flexor tendons becomes puffy. Some- 
times continued irritation will cause the wind-galls to greatly enlarge, 
and ultimately provokes their case to change into bone. During these 
changes the horse is very lame. 

Treatment. — Fold pieces of rags; wet them; put these on the wind- 
galls; place on the rags pieces of cork, and over the cork lace on an 
India-rubber bandage. Mind this bandage is constantly worn, save 
when ridden or driven by the proprietor. Rest is the only alleviation 
foT the change of structure. 

WINDY COLIC. 

Causes. — Gorging on green food; but more commonly impaired 
digestion, consequent upon severe labor and old age. 

Symptoms. — Uneasiness; pendulous head; cessation of feeding. 
Breathing laborious ; fidgets ; rocking the body ; enlargement of the 
belly ; pawing. Standing in one place ; sleepy eye ; heavy pulse ; 
flatulence ; the abdomen greatly enlarged. Breathing very fast ; pulse 
very feeble ; blindness ; the animal walks round and round till it falls 
and dies. 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 513 

Treatment. — Three balls of sulphuret of ammonia, two drachms, 
with extract of gentian and powdered quassia, of each a sufficiency, 
may be given, one every half hour. Next, one ounce of chloride of 
potash, dissolved in a pint of cold water, and mingled with sulphuric 
ether, two ounces, should be horned down. In an hour's time, two 
ounces each of sulphuric ether and of laudanum ; half an ounce of 
camphorated spirits ; one drachm of carbonate of ammonia may be 
administered. No good effect being produced, throw up a tobacco- 
smoke enema. As a last resort, procure a stick of brimstone and light 
it. Remain in the stable while it burns, or the sulphureous fumes may 
become too powerful for life to inhale them. Continue this measure for 
two hours; then repeat the remedies previously recommended. All 
being fruitless, a desperate resort may be adopted. Puncture the 
abdomen with a trocar; but this operation can only be named here; 
the reader must turn to the substance of the book for its description. 

WORMS 

Are of four kinds : the Taenia, the Lumbrici, the Strongulus, and 
the Ascarides. 

The Taenia mostly affect the young. 

Cause. — Starving the mare when with foal, and breeding from old 
animals. 

Symptoms. — Checked development; large head; low crest; long 
legs, and swollen abdomen. Appetite ravenous ; body thin ; coat un- 
healthy ; breath fetid. The colt rubs its nose against a wall, or strains 
it violently upward ; picks and bites its own hair. 

Treatment. — Give spirits of turpentine. To a foal, two drachms ; to 
a three months' old, half an ounce ; six months, one ounce ; one year, 
one ounce and a half; two years, two ounces; three years, three ounces ; 
four years and upwards, four ounces. Procure one pound of quassia 
chips; pour on them three quarts of boiling water. Cause to blend 
with the turpentine a proportionate quantity of the quassia infusion, by 
means of yolks of eggs ; add one scruple of powdered camphor, and 
give first thing in the morning. Good food is essential afterward. 
Subsequently give every morning, till the coat is glossy, liquor arseni- 
calis, from one to eight drachms ; muriated tincture of iron, from one 
and a half to twelve drachms ; extract of belladonna, from ten grains 
to two drachms ; ale or stout, from half a pint to a quart. 

The Lumbrici prey upon the old and the weakly. 

Treatment. — Tartarized antimony, two drachms; common mass, a 
sufficiency to make one ball. Give one every morning. 

33 



514 ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 

The Strongulus, during life, is generally not known to be present. 

The Ascarides cause great itching posteriorly, which provokes the 
horse to rub its hair off against the wall. 

Treatment. — Try injections of train oil for one week. Then use in- 
fusion of catechu, one ounce to one quart of water. On the eighth 
morning, give aloes, four drachms; calomel, one drachm. Tobacco- 
smoke enemas are sometimes useful, and the following ointment may be 
placed up the rectum night and morning:- Glycerin, half an ounce; 
spermaceti, one ounce; melt the spermaceti, and blend; when cold, add 
strong mercurial ointment, three drachms ; powdered camphor, three 
drachms. 

WOUNDS. 

A lacerated wound is generally accompanied by contusion, but with 
little hemorrhage. Shock to the system is the worst of its primary 
effects. The danger springs from collapse. A slough may probably 
follow. The slough is dangerous in proportion as it is tardy. The 
horse may bleed to death if the body is much debilitated. 

Treatment. — Attend first to the system. Give a drink composed of 
sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each one ounce ; water, half a pint. 
Repeat the medicine every quarter of an hour if necessary, or till shiver- 
ing has ceased and the pulse is healthy. A poultice, made of one-fourth 
brewer's yeast, three-fourths of any coarse meal ; or a lotion, consisting 
of tincture of cantharides, one ounce; chloride of zinc, two drachms; 
water, three pints, may be employed. When the slough has fallen, 
apply frequently a solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water ; and regulate the food by the pulse. 

An incised wound produces little shock. The danger is immediate, 
as the horse may bleed to death. 

Treatment. — Do not move the horse. Dash the part with cold water, 
or direct upon the bleeding surface a current of wind from the bellows. 
When the bleeding has ceased and the surfaces are sticky, draw the 
edges together with divided sutures. When the sutures begin to drag, 
cut them across. After copious suppuration has been established, bathe 
frequently with the solution of chloride of zinc, one grain to the ounce 
of water. 

An abraded wound generally is accompanied by grit or dirt forced 
into the denuded surface. The pain is so great, the animal may sink 
from irritation. 

Treatment. — Cleanse, by squeezing water from a large sponge above 
the wound, as was directed for broken knees, and allow suppuration to 



ALPHABETICAL SUMMARY. 515 

remove any grit that is fixed in the flesh. Support the body, and use 
the chloride of zinc lotion. 

A punctured wound is dangerous, as the parts injured are liable to 
motion. On this account those above the stifle are very hazardous. 
Sinuses form from the torn fascia opposing the exit of the pus; also 
because the small hole in the skin generally bears no proportion to the 
internal damage. 

Treatment. — Always enlarge the external opening to afford egress to 
all sloughs and pus. Regulate the food by the symptoms, and use the 
chloride of zinc lotion. 

A contused wound, when large, causes more congealed blood than 
can be absorbed. This corrupts, and a slough must occur or an abscess 
must form. Either generates weakness, produces irritation, and may lead 
to fatal hemorrhage. Or sinuses may form. Wherefore, such accidents 
ai'e not to be judged of hastily. 

Treatment. — When the contusion is slight, rub the part with iodide 
of lead, one drachm of the salt to an ounce of lard. When large, divide 
the skin, every eighth inch, the entire length of the swelling. Bathe the 
injury with the chloride of zinc lotion, and support the body, as the 
symptoms demand liberality in the matter of food. 

In all wounds, gain, if possible, a large depending orifice, and cover 
the denuded surfaces with a rag saturated with oil of, or in solution of, 
tar. 



The author, having now concluded his labors, cannot forbear from 
repeating the advice which was given to the reader at the commence-' 
ment of the present Summary — always appeal to the body of the 
work so soon as the first danger has subsided. Many hints are* therein 
contained which could not be embodied in anything deserving to be 
entitled an abbreviation. Ampler space there enables the writer to 
describe certain precautions and to suggest various stratagems which, 
of course, would be out of place in the pages where condensation was 
the professed characteristic. For these reasons the reader is most 
earnestly recommended never to depend longer upon the contents of 
the Summary, than the pressure of immediate danger shall render im- 
perative. 



INDEX. 



Abdomen, diseases of, 165. 
Abdominal injuries, 184, 467. 

ruptured diaphragm, 185. 

ruptured spleen, 186. 

ruptured stomach, 186. 

intro-susception, 187. 

invagination, 187. 

strangulation, 188. 

ruptured intestines, 188. 

calculus, 188. 
Abraded wounds, 425. 
Abscess of the brain, 19, 467. 

symptoms of, 20. 
Acites, 178, 468. 

symptoms of, 178. 

treatment of, 179. 
Acute dysentery, 172, 468. 

cause of, 173. 

symptoms of, 173. 

treatment of, 174. 
Acute gastritis, 147, 469. 

causes of, 147. 

treatment of, 148. 

symptoms of, 149. 
Acute laminitis, 367, 469. 

cause of, 368. 

symptoms of, 369. 

treatment for, 870. 
Albuminous urine, 218, 470. 
All kinds of treatment have been tried 

for tetanus, 32. 
Alphabetical summary, 465. 
Alteration in shape consequent upon 

tetanus, 31. 
Aphtha, 73, 470. 

treatment of, 73. 
Attention to the feeding of horses most 
important, 20. 

Back sinews, clap of, 302, 477. 

sprain of, 303, 607. 
Bandage for punctured abdomen, 432. 
Best treatment for megrims, 26. 
Blood spavin, 328, 470. 
Bloody urine, 215, 486. 
Bog spavin, 318, 470. 



Bots, 152, 470. 

causes of, 152. 
Brain, abscess of, 19. 

and nervous systems : their acei- 
dents and diseases, 1 7. 

disease of, 17. 
Breaking down, 304, 470. 

cause of, 304. 

treatment for, 305. 
Broken knees, 404, 471. 

contusion generally accompanies, 
405. 

cause of, 406. 

proper mode to wash, 407. 

how to probe, 408. 

treatment for, 410. 
Broken wind, 254, 472. 

cause of, 255. 

symptoms of, 256. 

treatment for, 257. 
Bronchocele, 119, 473. 

remedies for, 119. 
Bronchitis, 125, 472. 

symptoms of, 126. 

remedies for, 127. 
Bruise of the sole, 353, 478- 
Buying a captain, 84. 

Calculi, 213, 473. 
Canker, 358, 474. 

cause of, 859. 

symptoms of, 359, 

treatment for, 361. 
Capped elbow, 824, 474 
Capped hock, 321, 474. 
Capped knee, 321, 475. 
Cartilages, ossified, 366, 495. 
Cataract, 54, 475. 

kinds of, 54. 

preventive for, 54. 

no remedy for complete, 56. 

use of belladonna in, 56. 

no medicine can cure, 57. 
Cavities, synovial, open, 412, 494. 
Chest, the diseases of, 121. 
Choking, 110, 475. 

(517) 



518 



INDEX. 



Choking, causes of, 111. 
different Icinds of, 111. 
high, most important, 111. 
remedy for, 112. 
low, 113. 
Chronic dysentery, 175, 470. 

cause of, 175. 

symptoms of, 17G. 

treatment of, 177. 
Chronic gastritis, 15U, 470'. 

symptoms of, 150. 

treatment of, 151. 
Chronic hepatitis, 158, 477. 
Clap of the back sinews, 302, 477. 
Cold, 84, 477. 

its causes, 84. 

symptoms of, 85. 

treatment of, 85. 
Colic, windy, 199. 

spasmodic, 194, 505. 

cause of, 194. 

symptoms of, 196. 

treatment for, 107. 
Congestion in the field, 121, 478. 

remedy for, 122. 
Congestion in the stable, 123, 478. 

remedy for, 125. 
Corns, 349, 478. 

causes of, 349. 

old and new, how to distinguish, 350. 

treatment for, 352. 
Contused wounds, 427. 
Cough, 99, 479. 

symptoms of, 99. 

treatment for, 100. 

medicines for, 101. 
Countenance of a horse with hydro- 
phobia, 27. 
Cracked heels, 250, 479. 

cause of, 250. 

symptoms of, 252. 

treatment for, 252. 
Crib-biting, 162, 480. 

symptoms of, 1G3. 

treatment of, 164. 
Curb, 306, 480. 

cause of, 308. 

treatment for, 307. 
Curb-chain may injure the jaw, 72. 
Cystic calculus, 214. 
Cystitis, 209, 480. 

causes of, 211. 

symptoms of, 210. 

treatment for, 210. 

Diabetes insipidus, 217-, 481. 

causes, 217. 

treatment for, 217. 
Diaphragm, spasm of, 145, 504, 
Disease of the heart, 143. 
Division of the tendons, 457. 



Division of the tendons, the necessity for, 
how provoked, 458. 

how to perform, 459. 

after-treatment required for, 460. 
Do not whip a runaway horse, 19. 
Dropsy of the abdomen, 178. 
Dysentery, acute, 172. 

chronic, 175. 

Enteritis, 165, 481. 

causes of, 165. 

symptoms of, 167. 

mode of making sure that it is pres- 
ent, 109. 

treatment of, 170. 
Excoriated angles of the mouth, 64, 481. 

causes of, 64. 

treatment for, 66. 
Expression of a horse changed by re- 
peated attacks of megrims, 25. 
Extirpation of the eye, 59. 
Eye, fungoid tumors in, 57. 
Eyes, the diseases of, 42. 

Face of a horse with hydrophobia, 27. 
False quarter, 345, 482. 

cause of, 345. 

treatment for, 346. 
Farcy, 282, 482. 

cause of, 282. 

symptoms of, 283. 
Feeding a horse with chronic tetanus, 33. 
Feet, their diseases, 330. 
Fever in the feet, 367. 
Filled legs, 239. 
Fistulous parotid duct, 394, 482. 

its causes, 395. 

symptoms of, 396. 

treatment for, 397. 
Fistulous withers, 391, 483. 

its causes, 391. 

symptoms of, and treatment for, 392. 
Flatulent colic, 199. 
Foot, prick of, 354, 498 

pumice, 339, 499. 
Fret, 194, 505. 
Fungoid tumors in the eye, 57, 483. 

symptoms of, 57. 

horrible alternatives left by, 58. 

Gastritis, acute, 147. 

chronic, 150. 
Glanders, 274, 483. 

cause of, 274. 

symptoms of, 276. 
Gleet, nasal, 91, 491. 
Grease, 242, 484. 

prevention of, 242. 

nature of, 242. 

cause of, 244. 

symptoms of, 245. 



INDEX. 



519 



Grease, treatment for, 247. 
Gripes, 194, 505. 
Gutta Serena, 38, 485. 

causes of, 38. 

symptoms of, 39. 

peculiarities of, 40. 

etfect upon the optic nerve, 40. 

Harness horses most subject to megrims, 

24. 
Hay rack, evils of its general position, 44. 
Heart, disease of, 143, 485. 
Heels, cracked, 250. 
Hematuria, 215, 485. 

symptoms of, 215. 

treatment for, 216. 
Hepatitis, chronic, 158. 

causes of, 158. 

treatment for, 160. 
Hide-bound, 231, 486. 

treatment for, 232. 
Highblowing, 94, 486. 
Horse quickly learns to recognize the 

voice of its owner, 19. 
How to treat a runaway horse, 19. 
Hydrophobia, 27, 486. 

symptoms of, 27. 

treatment for, 28. 
Hydrothorax, 139, 486. 

symptoms of, 140. 

treatment of, 141, 

Incised wounds, 424. 
Idiopathic tetanus, 29. 

causes of, 30. 
Impediment in the lachrymal duct, 61, 
487. 

causes of, 62. 

treatment for, 62. 
Inflammation of the kidneys, 204, 492. 

of the bladder, 209, 480, 

of the vein, 398, 496. 
Influenza, 181, 487. 

probable cause of, 181. 

symptoms of, 182. 

treatment of, 183. 
Injuries, 385. 

of the abdomen, 184. 

to the jaw, 69, 488. 

the snaffle may cause, 70. 

but often does produce, 70. 

treatment for, 71. 

produced by London stables, 35. 

•Jaw, injuries to the, 69, 488. 
Joints, synovial, open, 418, 494. 

Kidneys, inflammation of, 204, 492. 
Knees, broken, 404. 

Lacerated eyelid, 60, 488. 



Lacerated eyelid, cause of, 60. 

treatment for, 61. 
Lacerated tongue, 74, 488. 

causes of, 77. 

treatment of, 77. 
Lacerated wounds, 423. 
Lameness, 330. 

treatment for, 330. 

mode of progression when in difi^er- 
ent feet, 333. 
Laminitis, acute, 867. 

subacute, 375, 489. 
Lampas, 67. 

an imaginary disease, 67. 
Larva in the skin, 233, 489. 

cause of, 233. 

cure for, 234. 
Laryngitis, 101, 488. 

cause of, 101. 

symptoms of, 102. 

treatment of, 102. 
Lash, effect of on the eye of the horse, 43. 
Laying open the sinuses of a quittor, 462. 

how to accomplish, 462. 

intention of, 463. 
Lice, 232, 489. 
Limbs, the diseases of, 286. 
Liver, the diseases of, 145. 
London stables, 35. 
Luxation of the patella, 325, 490. 

Madness, 27. 

Mad staggers, 20. 

Mallenders and sallenders, 249, 490. 

treatment for, 249. 
Mange, 220, 490. 

causes of, 221. 

symptoms of, 22.'5. 

treatment for, 225. 
Megrims, 24, 491. 

a form of epilepsy, 24. 

when the attacks may appear, 24. 

symptoms of, 25. 
Melanosis, 259, 491. 

symptoms of, 259. 

treatment for, 260. 
Mode of feeding a horse with chronic 

tetanus, 33. 
Mouth, the, its accidents and diseases, 64. 

excoriated angles of, 64. 

roof of, may be injured by the bit, 71. 

the disease of, 64. 

Nasal gleet, 91, 491. 

its causes, 91. 

its treatment, 92. 
Nasal polypus, 88, 492. 

its nature, 88. 

its treatment, 88. 
Navicular disease, 377, 492. 

seat of, 377. 



520 



INDEX. 



Navicular disease, causes of, 378. 

symptoms of, 379. 

treatment for, 382. 
Nephritis, 204, 492. 

causes of, 205. 

symptoms of, 206. 

treatment for, 207. 
Nervous system, its accidents and its 

diseases, 17. 
Neurotomy, 451. 

its results, 451. 

manner of performing, 452. 
Nostrils, tlie diseases of, 84. 

tiieir accidents and their diseases, 84. 

Occult spavin, 308, 493. 

cause of, 309. 

symptom of, 309. 

treatment for, 310. 
Open synovial joints, 418, 494. 

primary treatment for, 418. 

general treatment for, 419. 
Open synovial cavities, 412, 494. 

cause of, 412. 

nature of, 413. 

what is generally spoken of as, 415. 

treatment for, 415. 
Operation of no use in abscess of the 

brain, 20. 
Operations, 434, 495. 

aids to fetter the horse for, 440. 
Ophthalmia, simple, 42, 503. 

specific, 46, 506. 
Optic nerve, the effect of gutta serena 

upon, 41. 
Osseous deposits, 286. 
Ossified cartilages, 366, 495. 
Overreach, 349, 495. 

treatment for, 349. 

Parotid duct, fistulous, 894 
Parrot-mouth, 66, 495. 

evils of, 67. 

no cure for, 67. 
Partial paralysis, 36, 496. 

symptom of, 36, 

the disease of fast horses, 37. 

generally past all cure, 37. 

the only hope of remedy for, 37. 
Patella, luxation of, 325, 490. 
Periosteotomy, 449. 

the intention of, 449. 

its advantages considered, 450. 
Phlebitis, 398. 496. 

experiment with regard to, 399. 

cause of, 400. 

symptoms of, 401. 

treatment for, 402. 
Phrenitis, 17, 496. 

seldom is perceived approaching, 18. 

symptoms of its approach, 18. 



Phrenitis, remedies for the early symp- 
toms of, 18. 
Physic of no use in abscess of the 

brain, 20. 
Pleurisy, 136, 497. 

symptoms of, 137. 

treatment of, 138. 

causes of, 139. 
Pneumonia, 130, 497. 

doubts concerning, 131. 

symptoms of, 131. 

treatment of, 132. 
Poll evil, 385, 498. 

its causes, 386. 

symptoms of, 387. 

treatment for, 388. 
Polypus, nasal, 88, 492. 
Prick of the foot, 354, 498. 
Profuse staling, 215, 481. 
Prurigo, 226, 499. 

symptoms of, 226. 

treatment of, 227. 
Pumice foot, 339, 499. 

causes of, 339. 

symptoms of, 340. 

treatment for, 341. 
Punctured wounds, 426. 
Purgative and quiet, best remedies for 

tetanus, 32. 
Purpura hemorrhagica, 265, 499. 

symptoms of, 265. 

treatment for, 266. 

Quarter, false, 345. 

Quidding, 79. 

Quiet and a strong purgative, the best 

remedies for tetanus, 32. 
Quittor, 354, 500. 

cause of, 355. 

symptoms of, 355. 

treatment for, 357. 

sinuses of, laying open, 462. 

Rack, hay, evil of its general posi- 
tion, 44. 
Rheumatism, 312, 500. 

cause of, 312. 

symptoms of, 312. 

treatment for, 313. 
Ring-bone, 298, 500. 

cause of, 298. 

symptoms of, 298. 

treatment for, 300. 
Ring-worm, 227, 501. 

symptoms of, 227. 

treatment for, 228. 
Roaring, 106, 501. 

chronic, is a serious affair, 106. 

causes and effects of, 106. 

remedy for, 109. 



INDEX. 



521 



Roof of the mouth may be injured by 

the bit, 71. 
Rupture of oesophagus, 115, 501. 
how caused, 116. 

Sallenders, 249, 490. 
Sandcrack, 342, 502. 

causes of, 342. 

symptoms of, 342. 

treatment for, 348. 
Scald mouth, 82, 502. 

causes of, 82. 

symptoms of, 83. 

treatment of, 83. 
Seedy toe, 346, 503. 

treatment for, 347. 
Shying, 42. 
Simple ophthalmia, 42, 503. 

nature of, 43. 

causes, 43. 

treatment of, 45. 

symptoms of, 45. 
Sinuses of a quittor, laying open, 462. 
Sitfast, 240, 603. 

cause of, 241. 

treatment for, 241. 
Skin, diseases of, 220. 
Sole, bruise of, 353, 498. 
Sore throat, 96, 503. 

symptoms of, 97. 

treatment for, 97. 
Spasm of the diaphragm, 145, 504. 

symptoms of, 145. 

treatment of, 146. 
Spasm of the urethra, 212, 504. 

causes of, 212. 

symptoms of, 212. 

treatment for, 213. 
Spasmodic colic, 194, 505. 

causes of, 194. 

symptoms of, 196. 

treatment for, 197. 
Spavin, 286, 505. 

cause of, 287. 

symptoms of, 288. 

treatment for, 293. 

how to examine for, 291. 

occult, 308, 493. 
Specific diseases, varieties of, 254. 
Specific ophthalmia, 46, 506. 

eyes supposed most subject to, 47. 

small stables the cause of, 47. 

symptoms of, 48. 

contrasted with simple ophthalmia, 
49. 

treatment for, 50. 

preventive for, 51. 

terminations of, 51. 
Splint, 294, 506. 

cause of, 294. 

symptoms of, 296. 



Splint, treatment of, 297. 

Sprain of the back sinews, 303, 507. 

cause of, 303. 

treatment for, 304. 
Staggers, 20, 507. 

treatment for, 22. 

origin of, 20. 

sleepy, 22. 
Strain of the flexor tendon, 300, 508. 
Strangles, 267, 508. 

cause of, 268. 

symptoms of, 268. 

treatment for, 269. 

a bad kind of, 272. 
Stringhalt, 33, 509. 

symptom of, 33. 

cause of, 35. 
Stomach, the, diseases of, 145. 
Stricture of oesophagus, 116, 501. 

its effects, 117. 
Subacute laminitis, 375, 489. 

W. Percival's account of, 375. 

treatment for, 376. 
Summary, alphabetical, 465. 
Surfeit, 229, 509. 

treatment for, 230. 

a severe kind of, 230. 
treatment for, 230. 
Swollen legs, 239, 509. 

symptoms of, 239. 

treatment for, 240. 
Synovial cavities, open, 412, 494. 

joints, open, 418, 494. 

Tapping the chest, 141. 
Teeth, disease of, 78, 509. 

symptoms of their disease, 80. 

treatment of, 81. 
Tendons, division of, 457. 
Tetanus, 28, 510. 
Thorough-pin, 319, 510. 
Throat, its accidents and diseases, 96. 

sore, 96, 503. 

the diseases of, 96. 
Thrush, 363, 510. 

cause of, 363. 

treatment for, 364. 
Toe, seedy, 346, 503. 
Toothache, 80. 
Tooth, components of, 79. 
Tracheotomy, 443. 

how to perform, 445. 
Traumatic tetanus, 29. 

causes of, 29. 

test for, 30. 
Tread, 348, 511. 

causes of, in light and heavy 
horses, 348. 

treatment for, 348. 
True cause of stringhalt, 35. 
Tumors, 237, 511. 



522 



INDEX. 



Tumors, natures of, 238. 
Tushes, a cause of sickness, 78 
Tympanitis, 199. 

Universal spasm is tetanus, 30. 
Urethra, spasm of, 504. 
Urethral calculus, 215. 
Urinary organs, diseases of, 204. 

Vein, inflammatioii of the, 398, 490. 

Warts, 235, 511. 

kinds of, 23G. 

treatment for, 236. 
Water, certain death, after over-eoro'- 
ing, 21. ^ ° 

Water farcy, 262, 512. 

cause of, 262. 

symptoms of, 263. 

treatment for, 264. 
Wheezing, 94, 486. 
Wind-galls, 315, 612. 



Wind-galls, symptoms of, 316. 

treatment for, 317. 
Windy colic, 199, 512. 
causes of, 199. 
symptoms of, 200. 
treatment for, 201. 
Withers, fistulous, 391. 
Worms, 190, 513. 
cause of, 190. 
symptoms of, 191. 
treatment for, 192. 
Wounds, 423, 614. 
lacerated, 423. 

their treatment, 427. 
incised, 424. 

their treatment, 428. 
abraded, 425. 

their treatment, 430. 
punctured, 426. 

their treatment, 430. 
contused, 427. 

their treatment, 431. 



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